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Callinicus I of Constantinople

CONFESSORBISHOP

August 23·8th century·Byzantine Empire

Callinicus I served as the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople from 693 to 705. He is remembered for his role in deposing Emperor Justinian II and later being arrested and blinded upon Justinian II's return to power. He is venerated as a saint in the Eastern Orthodox Church.

Key Facts

  • Callinicus I was the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople from 693 to 705.
  • He was instrumental in the deposition of Emperor Justinian II.
  • Upon Justinian II's return to the throne, Callinicus I was arrested.
  • He was blinded and subsequently imprisoned in a monastery.
  • He is recognized as a saint by the Eastern Orthodox Church.
  • His feast day is celebrated on August 23rd.
Death Year
711
Manner of Death
Blinded and imprisoned
Role Type

About Callinicus I of Constantinople

Callinicus I was the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, serving from 693 to 705. His tenure as patriarch coincided with a turbulent period in Byzantine history, marked by political intrigue and the shifting fortunes of emperors.

Life and Historical Context

Callinicus I is primarily remembered for his involvement in the deposition of Emperor Justinian II. He aided in placing Leontius on the Byzantine throne, an act that had significant consequences for his own life. Later, when Justinian II managed to regain power, Callinicus I was arrested. He suffered the brutal fate of being blinded before being imprisoned in a monastery.

Veneration

Despite the hardships he endured, Callinicus I is recognized and venerated as a saint within the Eastern Orthodox Church. His feast day is commemorated annually on August 23rd, a testament to his spiritual significance and his enduring place in the tradition.

Source: Wikipedia ↗

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Callinicus I serve as Patriarch of Constantinople?

Callinicus I served as the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople from 693 to 705. This period was marked by significant political events within the Byzantine Empire.

What role did Callinicus I play in the deposition of Emperor Justinian II?

Callinicus I played a key role in helping to depose Emperor Justinian II. This action led to Leontius being placed on the Byzantine throne.

What happened to Callinicus I after Justinian II returned to power?

When Justinian II triumphantly returned to Constantinople and was reinstated as Emperor, Callinicus I faced severe repercussions. He was arrested, blinded, and subsequently imprisoned in a monastery.

Is Callinicus I recognized as a saint?

Yes, Callinicus I is recognized as a saint by the Eastern Orthodox Church. His sanctity is acknowledged through his veneration and the celebration of his feast day.

When is the feast day of Callinicus I celebrated?

The feast day of Callinicus I is celebrated on August 23rd each year. This date is observed by the Eastern Orthodox Church in his honor.