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Educated in Syracuse. While in Constantinople to seek a position at court,
he felt the call to enter the religious life. Built a monastery and
started a monastic community on the island of Chinos. Soon after finishing
construction, Methodius was summoned by the Patriarch of Constantinople to
help govern the diocese.
The Eastern Church was debating the use of icons in worship and as tools
to bring the faithful closer to God. Methodius and the Patriarch of
Constantinople worked against the iconoclasts, and together suffered
nearly as much abuse as the images. They worked to unify and reconcile the
sides. Methodius traveled to Rome to seek the Pope's help; during his
absence, he was exiled. After seven years, he returned as Patriarch of
Constantinople in 842, and continued to work for unity.
Born: 8th century at Syracuse
Died: 847
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