St. Tarasius, born in the Byzantine Empire, was raised to the highest honors as Consul. Later, he became first secretary to the Emperor Constantine (who was only 9 years old) and the Emperor’s mother, Irene. He was elected Patriarch of Constantinople. He consented to accept the position on the condition that a General Council be summoned to resolve the disputes concerning the veneration of sacred images. Constantinople had been separated from the Holy See because of the war between the Emperors. The Council met in the Church of the Holy Apostles in Constantinople in 706 and again the following year at Nice. Its decrees were approved by the pope. By Tarasius’ persistent refusal to sanction the divorce from his lawful wife, he incurred the enmity of the Emperor. Constantine’s death was occasioned by his own mother. Tarasius beheld the downfall of Irene and the usurpation of Nicephorus. His whole life was one of penance and prayer and hard labor. He visited the poor, the indigent and all the hospitals in Constantinople distributing alms. He died in 806.
FEAST DAY- February 25
BOOK
Responsorial Psalm
Throw your cares on the Lord, and he will support you.
Quiz
Yesterday’s Answer-
True
Today’s Question-
The end justifies the means? True or False?
