Catechetical Lectures
Lectures given at Jerusalem to candidates for baptism, explaining the creed article by article, followed by five on the rites of initiation. They show what a fourth-century bishop taught converts and how he read Scripture.
Cyril delivered these lectures at Jerusalem in the weeks before Easter, about the middle of the fourth century. An opening address and eighteen lectures explain the faith to those about to be baptised, following the clauses of the creed. Five further lectures on baptism, anointing and the Eucharist follow them.
They are a primary source for teaching and worship at Jerusalem in Cyril’s time. Lectures 16 and 17 treat the Holy Spirit, and it is there that he sets the gift of tongues at Pentecost against the confusion of tongues at Babel.
Cited in
- undated
- c. AD 29 or 32, estimated date
- AD 335, firm date