March 18

b. 315, d. 386
Doctor of the Church.

Raised a Christian in Jerusalem. Well educated, especially in religion. Priest, ordained by St. Maximus. A great teacher of catechumens, Cyril's instructions are still source documents for the Church's early teachings. Bishop of Jerusalem in 348. Exiled three times by the Arians, usually on some trumped up charge like selling church furniture, but actually on theological grounds. Attended the Council of Seleucia in 359. Attended the Council of Constantinople in 381.

"Children of justice, follow John's exhortation: "Make straight the way of the Lord." Remove all obstacles and stumbling blocks so that you will be able to go straight along the road to eternal life. Through a sincere faith prepare yourselves so that you may be free to receive the Holy Spirit. My brothers, this is truly a great occasion. Approach it with caution. You are standing in front of God and in the presence of the hosts of angels. The Holy Spirit is about to impress his seal on each of your souls. You are about to be pressed into the service of a great king. And so prepare yourselves to receive the sacrament. The gleaming white garments you are about to put on are not the preparation I am speaking of, but rather the devotion of a clean conscience."
- from a catechetical instruction by Saint Cyril of Jerusalem to those preparing for baptism and confirmation.