Theophylact of Constantinople

Theophylact of Constantinople, born in nine hundred seventeen, was a prominent figure in the Byzantine Church, serving as the Ecumenical Patriarch from February second, nine hundred thirty-three until his death in nine hundred fifty-six. He was the youngest son of Emperor Romanos I Lekapenos and Theodora, and his elevation to the patriarchate was a significant event, as he was only sixteen years old at the time. His father had long envisioned this path for him, securing the support of Pope John XI for his appointment.

Throughout his patriarchate, which lasted just over twenty-three years, Theophylact was known for his commitment to ecclesiastical ecumenicism. He maintained close ties with the Greek patriarchates of Alexandria and Antioch and was proactive in sending missionaries to the Magyars, aligning his efforts with imperial diplomacy during the late nine hundreds. Additionally, he provided counsel to his nephew-in-law, Emperor Peter I of Bulgaria, regarding the emerging Bogomil heresy.

Despite his ecclesiastical duties, Theophylact faced criticism for his personal interests, particularly his passion for horses. Detractors claimed that he prioritized his extensive stable over his religious responsibilities, even allegedly neglecting the Divine Liturgy in favor of attending to his favorite mare's foaling. This reputation for irreverence contrasted sharply with the expectations of the conservative clergy surrounding him.

Theophylact's tenure came to an abrupt end when he tragically fell from a horse in nine hundred fifty-six. His legacy, however, remains significant as he was the only son of an emperor to ascend to the patriarchate during his father's reign, and he was one of the few to retain his position after the family's decline in power in nine hundred forty-five.