Cyril and Methodius

Cyril and Methodius, born Michael in the year eight hundred fifteen, were remarkable Byzantine Christian theologians and missionaries who played a pivotal role in the evangelization of the Slavic peoples. Their dedication to spreading Christianity earned them the revered title of the 'Apostles to the Slavs.'

These brothers are credited with the creation of the Glagolitic alphabet, a significant achievement as it was the first alphabet designed to transcribe Old Church Slavonic. This innovation not only facilitated the spread of Christianity but also laid the groundwork for the development of Slavic literacy and culture.

Following their passing in the year eight hundred eighty-five, their disciples continued the important missionary work among various Slavic communities, ensuring that their legacy endured. Both Cyril and Methodius are honored as saints in the Eastern Orthodox Church, recognized with the esteemed title of 'equal-to-apostles.'

In eighteen eighty, Pope Leo XIII acknowledged their contributions by introducing their feast into the Roman Rite calendar. Furthermore, in nineteen eighty, Pope John Paul II, the first Slav pope, declared them co-patron saints of Europe alongside Benedict of Nursia, solidifying their significance in both religious and cultural history.