Philotheus I of Constantinople

Philotheus I of Constantinople, born in the year one thousand three hundred, was a prominent figure in the Eastern Orthodox Church, serving as the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople during two significant periods: from August one thousand three hundred fifty-three to December one thousand three hundred fifty-four, and again from October eighth one thousand three hundred sixty-four until August one thousand three hundred seventy-six.

As a writer and an Eastern Orthodox priest, Philotheus I played a crucial role in the Byzantine monastic and religious revival of the fourteenth century. His extensive theological, liturgical, and canonical works gained widespread recognition, not only within Byzantium but also across the Slavic Orthodox world, influencing countless followers of the faith.

His tenure as patriarch was marked by political challenges, including his opposition to Emperor John V Palaiologos, who sought to negotiate a political reunion of the churches with Popes Urban V and Gregory XI. Instead, Philotheus I advocated for an authentic ecumenical union-council in one thousand three hundred sixty-seven, aiming to address the theological differences with the Western Church.

Philotheus I is commemorated on October eleventh and is revered as a