Archbishop
Saint Methodios was the first enlightener and teacher of the Slavs. He came from a noble family. He served as a military officer and governor of a Slavic principality. Through this, he learned the Slavic language.
After becoming a monk, he departed together with his younger brother, Saint Cyril, who possessed remarkable knowledge and was highly educated, to preach the Gospel to the Khazars. During this mission, he discovered the relics of Saint Clement, Pope of Rome.
In 863, he recorded the Slavic alphabet and, together with his brother, translated the necessary liturgical books. Following the success of their mission in Moravia, the saints were called to face the opposition of certain bishops, who complained to the ecclesiastical see in Rome. Pope Adrian eventually approved the celebration of the liturgy in the Slavic language.
Shortly afterward, on February 14, 869, Saint Cyril reposed. Saint Methodios continued his brother’s work, was ordained Archbishop, and preached the word of God despite persecutions and threats. He translated the Old Testament, as well as other sacred books, into the Slavic language. Knowing that his end was near, he appointed one of his disciples as his successor.
He reposed on April 6, 885, and was buried in Belgrade.
