Cyril of Jerusalem

Cyril, Bishop of Jerusalem, preached his important and eloquent sermons at a time when the city was the focus of vital developments in the Church. A spectacular new liturgy was evolving in the basilica built by the Emperor Constantine; yet the city was also the centre of fierce struggles inside the Church, as the successors to Arius strove to impose their heterodox teachings, and neighbouring Caesarea fought to maintain its primacy. This illuminating study begins with a comprehensive introduction to Cyril’s life and works. It also considers the growing archaeological evidence for the Constantinean complex, centred on Calvary and Jesus’ tomb, where Cyril preached. A full account of the rites he conducted there is given, along with an assessment of Cyril’s thought in the context of fourth-century theological developments. There follow up-to-date translations of a selection of Cyril’s writings, mostly connected with the instruction of candidates for baptism, and focusing on the creed and the liturgical rites. Also included are the text of a biblical sermon, and a fascinating letter written by Cyril to the Emperor Constantius.
Accessible yet erudite, this volume will be a valuable resource for students and scholars of liturgy, theology and archaeology in the early Church.

Author Biography

Edward Yarnold, S. J., is a University Research Lecturer at the University of Oxford. His previous publications include The Study of Liturgy (co-editor,1976-92),The Study of Spirituality (co-editor, 1986) and Truth and Authority (with Henry Chadwick, 1977).