(376-444) Saint Cyril was an Egyptian monk and the Bishop of Alexandria. He wrote extensively in opposition to the heresy of Nestorius, a man who claimed that Mary was only the “Mother of Christ” and not the “Mother of God” since there were two separate personalities in Jesus. This was formally condemned at the Council of Ephesus. Cyril’s writings, along with a holy life, earned him the titles of Doctor of the Church and Father of the Church.

The term “Theotokos” (God-bearer) wasn’t invented at the Council of Ephesus. It had been in use for a long time, it was only explained more clearly and definitively there. 12-step recovery is a very human process of dependence on God and self-knowledge. It’s not novel and almost seems too simple. But we need the clarifications. And a program to put them into action.

“Indeed the mystery of Christ runs the risk of being disbelieved precisely because it is so incredibly wonderful” (Saint Cyril of Alexandria).