Equal-to-the-Apostles Saints Cyril and Methodius. Wooden orthodox icon.
Saints Cyril and Methodius, known as the "Apostles of the Slavs," are celebrated figures in Christian history for their monumental contributions to the spread of Christianity among the Slavic peoples. Their legacy, rooted in faith, education, and cultural development, continues to resonate across Eastern Europe and beyond.
Saints Cyril and Methodius, known as the "Apostles of the Slavs," are celebrated figures in Christian history for their monumental contributions to the spread of Christianity among the Slavic peoples. Their legacy, rooted in faith, education, and cultural development, continues to resonate across Eastern Europe and beyond.
Early Life and Background
Cyril, born Constantine in 827 in Thessalonica, was the youngest of the two brothers. He was highly educated, excelling in philosophy and theology.
Methodius, born in 815, was the elder brother and had a diverse career, including military service and a position in a monastery.
The brothers shared a common vision of spreading the Christian faith and were deeply influenced by their upbringing in a multicultural environment, which fostered their appreciation for various languages and cultures.
Mission to the Slavs
In 863, Cyril and Methodius were commissioned by the Byzantine Emperor Michael III to evangelize the Slavic peoples living in Great Moravia (modern-day Czech Republic and Slovakia). Their mission was crucial in establishing Christianity among the Slavs, who were largely unconverted at the time.
Creation of the Glagolitic Alphabet:
To effectively communicate the Gospel, Cyril devised a script known as the Glagolitic alphabet, considered the first Slavic writing system. This innovation was pivotal in allowing the Slavic peoples to read and write in their native language.
Translation of Scripture:
The brothers translated essential Christian texts, including the Bible and liturgical materials, into the Slavic language. This made the teachings of Christianity accessible to the Slavic people, fostering a sense of cultural identity and spiritual growth.
Establishment of the Slavic Liturgical Tradition:
Cyril and Methodius introduced a Slavic liturgical practice that utilized the vernacular language, promoting understanding and engagement among the local population. This was revolutionary in a time when Latin was the dominant liturgical language.
Despite their successes, Cyril and Methodius faced significant opposition from German missionaries who favored Latin over the Slavic language. The brothers endured hardships, including exile and criticism, yet they remained steadfast in their mission.
Cyril passed away in 869 in Rome, where he was honored for his contributions.
Methodius continued their work until his death in 885, facing further challenges but ultimately leaving a lasting impact on the Slavic world.
In 1880, the brothers were canonized by the Eastern Orthodox Church and are recognized as saints in both the Orthodox and Catholic traditions.
Their feast day is celebrated on July 5 in the Eastern Orthodox Church and on February 14 in the Roman Catholic Church.
Saints Cyril and Methodius are celebrated not only as religious figures but also as cultural icons. They played a crucial role in the development of Slavic literacy and identity, laying the groundwork for the establishment of Slavic nations.
Influence on Modern Languages:
Their contributions to the creation of alphabets led to the development of the Cyrillic alphabet, which is still in use today in various Slavic languages, including Russian, Bulgarian, and Serbian. This alphabet is a testament to their lasting influence on language and culture.
Saints Cyril and Methodius stand as towering figures in the history of Christianity and Slavic culture. Their dedication to spreading the Gospel, fostering literacy, and promoting cultural identity has left an indelible mark on the Slavic peoples and the broader Christian world. As we reflect on their legacy, we are reminded of the power of faith, education, and perseverance in the face of challenges.
Saints Cyril and Methodius, equal to the apostles, were canonized in ancient times. The work of the educators also influenced the development of the Old Russian language in Rus', which is why a monument to the Slavic first teachers Cyril and Methodius was unveiled in Moscow on Slavyanskaya Square in 1992. And their day of remembrance, May 24, was declared the Day of Slavic Literature and Culture.
The icon is made by printing on a wooden board. Paints are mineral, do not fade with time. The thickness of the board is 2 cm. The board is covered with primer by hand. The image is covered with wax. Each icon has a metal mount on the back side so that you can hang the icon on the wall. The icon has no recess, the surface is smooth.
You can buy the icon in three sizes:
- 13 х 11 centimeters (5,1 x 4,3 inches)
- 19 х 16 centimeters (7,5 x 6,3 inches)
- 26 х 22 centimeters (10,2 x 8,7 inches)
Our icons are made by Orthodox craftsmen. You can read more about the technology here.
We hope it will be a good gift for you and your loved ones.
