Saint Flavian of Constantinople

Biography

Saint Flavian of Constantinople, also known as Flavian of Ricina or Flaviano, was a significant figure in the history of the Catholic Church. He served as the Patriarch of Constantinople around the year 446, during a time of great theological debates and challenges. Flavian is best known for his condemnation of Eutyches, a monk who propagated the heresy of Monophysitism. Monophysitism claimed that Jesus Christ had only one nature, a divine nature, while denying the existence of His human nature. Flavian recognized the danger of this belief and firmly opposed it, defending the orthodox understanding of Christ's nature as fully human and fully divine. However, Flavian's stand against Eutyches brought him into conflict with Emperor Theodosius II. The emperor, who sympathized with Eutyches, tried to compel Flavian to retract his condemnation. Flavian, not willing to compromise the truth, refused to bribe the emperor or alter his stance. In a move against Theodosius' wishes, Flavian even went on to ordain the emperor's sister, Pulcherius, as a deaconess. This further incensed the emperor, leading him to depose and exile Flavian. While in exile, Flavian sought help from Pope Leo the Great, appealing to him for support and intervention. Unfortunately, Theodosius learned of this and ordered his soldiers to brutally beat Flavian. The injuries he sustained during this violent abuse proved fatal, and Flavian passed away three days later in the year 449. The Council of Chalcedon, convened in 451, recognized the heroic virtue and martyrdom of Flavian and subsequently canonized him as a saint of the Catholic Church. The council, presided over by Pope Leo the Great, greatly esteemed Flavian's defense of orthodox Christology and his refusal to compromise for political gain. Saint Flavian of Constantinople is venerated as a patron in various regions of Italy. Cities such as Barisciano, Basciano, Capitignano, Conversano, Giulianova, Recanati, and Torano Nuovo honor him as their patron saint. Feast days celebrating Saint Flavian's life and witness are observed on 17 February; 24 November in Giulianova and Barisciano; 16 February on some calendars; and 18 February on some calendars. Through his unwavering commitment to defending the true nature of Christ and his courageous stand against political pressures, Saint Flavian of Constantinople continues to inspire Catholics worldwide to remain steadfast in their faith and uphold the teachings of the Church.