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©The Religion Teacher

SaintCyrilofAlexandria Directions: Read the biography and answer the questions. As the Catholic Church grew and reached greater popularity throughout the Roman Empire in the fourth and fifth centuries, so too did the conflicts and debates increase among Christians about the doctrines of Jesus Christ. Saint Cyril was ordained a priest and later bishop in the important city of Alexandria. As bishop he opposed another powerful leading bishop named Nestorius, who denied the Virgin Mary the title of “Mother of God” and instead claimed she was only the mother of Christ’s human nature, not his divine nature. Hundreds of bishops gathered at the Council of Ephesus in 431 to debate this issue. With the guidance of the Holy Spirit, they ruled in favor of Saint Cyril and applied the title “Mother of God” to Mary. This upheld the belief that Jesus had one nature, both divine and human at the same time. After much strife, they deposed and exiled Nestorius. Saint Cyril spent his remaining years as bishop writing letters, sermons, and commentaries on the Bible that clarified his teachings and later earned him a place as one of the Doctors of the Church. 1. What was the controversy between Saint Cyril of Alexandria and Nestorius? __________________________________________________________________________________________ 2. What do you find to be the most common conflicts or misconception about the Catholic faith today? __________________________________________________________________________________________ 3. What are the best ways to resolve a conflict between you and your friends? __________________________________________________________________________________________