Hierarch · c. 376–444
Cyril of Alexandria
Saint Cyril, Archbishop of Alexandria
New Calendar January 18 Old Calendar January 31
Why they are a saint
Cyril of Alexandria was a defended the title Theotokos at the Council of Ephesus (431) against Nestorius; a principal teacher of Orthodox Christology. Orthodox Christians remember him as a hierarch who kept the apostolic faith in his see. The New Calendar feast is January 18.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Cyril of Alexandria as a patron when they bear the name Cyril; Kirill at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on January 18. Those who share his calling as a teacher also ask his prayers.
Prayer
O holy Cyril of Alexandria, pray to God for us.
A short general prayer to a saint, not a liturgical text. No public-domain troparion for this saint is included.
Do not confuse with Cyril the Apostle of the Slavs; Cyril of Jerusalem; Cyril of White Lake.