Święci Cyryl i Metody prekursorami Unii Europejskiej (?)

Abstract

For centuries, the brothers Cyril and Methodius, who are the patron saints of Europe, have reminded not only Christians but all the inhabitants of this continent of the continent's continuing need to build European unity. By going back to Europe's roots, we can gain a better understanding of its past and of its identity, so that we can be fully committed to the realisation of human rights, step up our efforts in solidarity with the peoples of other continents and, in so doing, work towards peace and development on a global scale. It can therefore be thought that both Saints made a fundamental contribution to the creation of Europe and its formation not only in religious terms, but moreover as a state and cultural organism. The founders of the European Union propounded views that were innovative and ahead of their time. At the same time, they did not forget that at the heart of the European integration tendencies of the peoples inhabiting this part of the world lay both a common history, tradition, culture and identity, but above all Christian values. Although they represented different backgrounds, they were guided by the fundamental objective of uniting Europe, thus striving to ensure lasting peace and economic, political and social stability. Bearing in mind the fundamental goals and values which guided the founding fathers of the European Union and which continue to guide the organisation, it should be emphasised that they coincide with those expressed by the Solemn Brothers. Hence, the author of this article attempts to answer the question whether Sts Cyril and Methodius can be forerunners of the European Union. An approximation of the brothers' mission in the Slavic territories, as well as a brief overview of the history of this European organisation, allows the conclusion to be drawn that both are the first founding fathers of the union as nations inhabiting the Old Continent. They brought the foundations of the Slav faith and culture, their indissoluble unity. But it should be remembered that they were, and still are, heralds of the Gospel, witnesses of the Good News proclaiming the God who constantly loves every human being. It is not insignificant that in the iconography the saints are depicted in pontifical dress as Greek or Latin bishops, which also shows the integrity of Europe, as both Eastern and Western parts of this continent.