Saint Cyprian
Saint Cyprian (born Thascius Caecilius Cyprianus, c. 210 AD in Carthage, North Africa; died September 14, 258 AD in Carthage) was Bishop of Carthage, one of the greatest theologians and pastors of the early Church, and a martyr under Emperor Valerian. His writings on the unity of the Church, on the episcopate, and on Christian suffering were foundational for subsequent Catholic ecclesiology. He is commemorated with Saint Cornelius on September 16. He is a Doctor of the Church (in some traditions).
Stored in Cargo: Saint Cyprian
| Saint Cyprian | |
|---|---|
| Feast Day | September 16 |
| Profession | Bishop of Carthage (249–258 AD); theologian; martyr |
| Rel. Affiliation | Roman Catholic Church; Early Church; North African Christianity |
| Patronage | North Africa; Algeria; Carthage; bishops; persecuted Christians |
| Attributes | Bishop's vestments; palm of martyrdom; book (his writings); sword (instrument of his martyrdom) |
| Birthplace | Carthage, Tunisia (Roman North Africa) |
| Death Place | Carthage, Tunisia (Roman North Africa) |
| Cause of Death | Martyrdom; beheaded on September 14, 258 AD by order of Emperor Valerian |
| Liturgical Class | Memorial (with Saint Cornelius) |
| Historic Class | September 16 |
Biography
Cyprian was a wealthy and learned pagan orator and rhetorician at Carthage. Around 246 AD, in his mid-thirties, he converted to Christianity through the influence of the priest Caecilius (from whom he took his baptismal name). His conversion was total and dramatic — he gave away much of his wealth to the poor. Within two years of baptism he was consecrated Bishop of Carthage (249 AD), over the objections of some clergy who thought his rise too rapid.
He immediately faced the Decian persecution (250 AD), during which he went into hiding rather than face martyrdom (a decision for which he was criticized). He continued to govern his community by letters — a vast correspondence that survives and constitutes one of the most important archives of early Christian history.
The persecution produced thousands of lapsi — those who had apostatized or bought certificates of sacrifice. The dispute over how to receive back the lapsi divided the Church: the rigorists (Novatianists) refused readmission; the laxists admitted them immediately. Cyprian steered a middle course: the lapsi could be readmitted, but only after a period of penance.
His major theological works include:
- On the Unity of the Catholic Church (De Unitate Ecclesiae) — the foundational patristic text on ecclesiology; contains the famous phrase Extra Ecclesiam nulla salus (Outside the Church there is no salvation); argues that the episcopate is one, and that those who leave the Church leave Christ.
- On the Lapsed (De Lapsis) — on the question of the lapsi.
- On the Lord's Prayer — a classic commentary.
- His extensive correspondence with bishops, clergy, confessors, and Rome.
In the Valerian persecution (257–258 AD), Cyprian was arrested, exiled, then brought back to Carthage and beheaded on September 14, 258. His Acts of martyrdom survive — a vivid first-hand account. He said to his executioner: Thanks be to God. His name is in the Roman Canon of the Mass alongside Saints Cornelius, Chrysogonus, and others.
Significant locations
Legend
Birth location: Carthage, Tunisia (Roman North Africa)
Death location: Carthage, Tunisia (Roman North Africa)
Notable location: His episcopal see; one of the greatest cities of the ancient world; where he was converted, rose to be bishop, and was martyred (Carthage, Tunisia)
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Feast day
September 16
Veneration
Saint Cyprian is venerated in the Roman Catholic Church with a feast day on September 16 (Memorial, shared with Saint Cornelius). He is named in the Roman Canon of the Mass.
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