18 MAR - SAINT OF THE DAY [S CYRIL OF JERUSALEM (315-386)]

 Cyril was born when a new phase was beginning for Christians and the Church was persecuted by the emperors earlier. Thousands of Christians had been martyrs. 

    In 315, Emperor Constantine recognized Christianity as a legal religion. There was confusion about what Christians believe and don't believe. 

    There were many false teachings called "heresies." Some priests and bishops became brave defenders of Church teaching. One such bishop was Cyril of Jerusalem. 

    When St. Maximus, bishop of Jerusalem, died, Cyril was chosen to take his place. Cyril was the bishop of Jerusalem for 35 years. 

    The reign of Emperor Julian the apostate began in 361. Julian decided to rebuild the famous Temple of Jerusalem. So he spent much money and sent all the 

    materials for a new Temple. Cyril felt that the Temple could not be built, because Jesus had said so. First a storm, then an earthquake, then a fire stopped the emperor. 

    He finally abandoned the project. St. Cyril died when he was seventy.




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