Cappadocian Fathers

Gregory the Theologian (Fresco from Chora Church, Istanbul)
Icon of Gregory of Nyssa (14th century fresco, Chora Church, Istanbul)

The Cappadocian Fathers, also traditionally known as the Three Cappadocians, were a trio of Byzantine Christian prelates, theologians and monks who helped shape both early Christianity and the monastic tradition. Basil the Great (330–379) was Bishop of Caesarea; Basil's younger brother Gregory of Nyssa (c. 335 – c. 395) was Bishop of Nyssa; and a close friend, Gregory of Nazianzus (329–389), became Patriarch of Constantinople.[1] The Cappadocia region, in modern-day Turkey, was an early site of Christian activity.

The Cappadocians advanced the development of early Christian theology, for example the doctrine of the Trinity,[2]: 22  and are highly respected as saints in both Western and Eastern churches.

  1. ^ "Commentary on Song of Songs; Letter on the Soul; Letter on Ascesis and the Monastic Life". World Digital Library. Retrieved 6 March 2013.
  2. ^ McGrath, Alister (1998), Historical Theology, Oxford: Blackwell Publishers, ISBN 0-63120843-7