Saint Cyril of Jerusalem, 315–386
March 18

Saint Cyril was a great teacher. He lived in the same country that Jesus did. After he became a priest, the bishop of Jerusalem asked him to prepare catechumens for Baptism. Saint Cyril explained the beliefs of the Church to those wanting to join. We still have his lectures today. They tell us how people prepared for Baptism in the early Church. They also tell us how the Mass was celebrated. Years later, when he became the bishop of Jerusalem himself, Cyril continued to give these lectures. He knew it was very important for people to understand exactly what happens when they are baptized.

Discuss: Talk about a time when you watched a Baptism.

Saint Cyril spent many years in exile while he was a bishop. He was well known as a catechist, and is considered one of the many Doctors of the Church. His writings on Catholic teaching are still read today.

Activity
Baptism
Verbal/Linguistic; Intrapersonal

Explain that Saint Cyril of Jerusalem prepared people for Baptism. Point out that there were several promises that you made on your child’s behalf at her/his Baptism.

• Review with your child the promises you made at his/her Baptism. Explain that whenever anyone is baptized, the assembled renew their own baptismal promises to reject sin and live in accordance with the law of love.
• Read each question that was asked of you. Then discuss their meaning.
  • Do you reject Satan, all his works, and all his empty promises?
  • Do you believe in God, the Father Almighty?
  • Do you believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son?
  • Do you believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, and life everlasting?
• Take the role of leader and pray together the prayer of Baptismal Promises on page 206 of the Student Book.