Cyril and Methodius Mission: What Happened
In 863 AD, the Byzantine emperor Michael III and the Patriarch Photios sent two brothers from Thessaloniki, Constantine, later known as Cyril, and Methodius, on a mission to Great Moravia, a Slavic state in central Europe. Its ruler, Prince Rastislav, had asked for missionaries who could teach Christianity in the Slavic language rather than in Latin. The brothers had grown up in Thessaloniki, where many Slavs lived, and they knew their language well. To bring scripture and church services to the Slavs in their own tongue, Cyril created a new alphabet, the Glagolitic script. The brothers translated the Gospels and liturgical texts into the Slavic language known today as Old Church Slavonic. They faced strong opposition from German clergy who insisted on Latin, but won the Pope's approval. After their deaths, their disciples moved to Bulgaria, where a new alphabet based largely on Greek letters was developed and named Cyrillic in Cyril's honor. Today, Cyrillic is used by hundreds of millions of people, and the brothers are honored as the Apostles to the Slavs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who were Cyril and Methodius?
Cyril and Methodius were brothers from Thessaloniki who became missionaries to the Slavs in the 9th century. They are honored as the Apostles to the Slavs.
Where did Cyril and Methodius go?
In 863 AD, the Byzantine emperor Michael III sent them to Great Moravia, a Slavic state in central Europe, at the request of its ruler, Prince Rastislav.
Did Cyril invent the Cyrillic alphabet?
Cyril created the Glagolitic script. The Cyrillic alphabet was developed later by his disciples in Bulgaria, based largely on Greek letters, and named in his honor.
What is Old Church Slavonic?
Old Church Slavonic is the Slavic language into which Cyril and Methodius translated the Gospels and church services. It became the liturgical language of many Slavic churches.
Why were Cyril and Methodius from Thessaloniki important?
Thessaloniki had a large Slavic population, so the brothers grew up knowing the Slavic language well, which made their mission and translations possible.
