In the Byzantine Orthodox icon below, which is in the public domain, the monk Cyril is shown on the right, holding a chart with the alphabet known as the Cyrillic alphabet, which he developed along with his brother, the bishop shown on the left in the icon. These two saints evangelised much of Europe, and it was Pope St John Paul II who declared them patron saints of Europe, along with St Benedict.

Today is set aside as a day of prayer for Europe; may these two saints assist us by their prayers, and may God bless you this day.