Memorial of Saints Cyril and Methodius
Genesis 3:1-8; Psalm 117; Luke 10:1-9
Today, the Church celebrates the memorial of St. Cyril and St. Methodius. St. Cyril, a priest and philosopher, accompanied his brother St. Methodius to Moravia to preach the Gospel. These men caught the fire of faith, exercised it, and transmitted it to others.
Beloved, evangelization is never an easy task. Jesus had to prepare the minds of the seventy-two disciples before sending them out to preach. As we reflect on the lives of St. Cyril and St. Methodius, we are reminded of our own call to be missionaries of Christ.
According to the previous liturgical calendar (1962), the feast of Cyril and Methodius was celebrated on July 7, while today, February 14, marks the commemoration of St. Valentine. St. Valentine, a priest and martyr of Rome, is said to have restored sight to the blind daughter of his jailer. Before his execution, he wrote a letter signed “Your Valentine.”
However, in 1969 the Church had to deemphasize its celebration in the liturgy due to lack of reliable information about him. Even though his feast day was removed from the General Roman Calendar he can still be revered! He is noted as the patron saint of lovers, epileptics, and beekeepers.
Today, the celebration of St. Valentine’s Day has become more of a romantic celebration than a liturgical one. Instead of spreading love, many are making love. May the wisdom of Genesis 3:1-8 guide us in our relationships, reminding us that true love is rooted in obedience to God’s will.
Prayer
O God, who enlightened the Slavic peoples through the brothers Saints Cyril and Methodius, grant that our hearts may grasp the words of your teaching, and perfect us as a people of one accord in true faith and right confession. Amen!
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
