Saint Tarasius of Constantinople

Biography

Saint Tarasius of Constantinople, also known as the Father of the Poor, was born around the year 750 in Constantinople, which is present-day Istanbul, Turkey. He hailed from a noble Byzantine family and eventually served as a consul and Secretary of State to Emperor Constantine IV and Empress Irene. Despite his high-ranking position in the political empire, Tarasius chose to live the life of a monk and became known for his ascetic lifestyle. He lived simply, eating little, sleeping little, and dedicating most of his time to prayer and work for the Church. In 784, following the death of his predecessor, Tarasius was unanimously chosen as the Patriarch of Constantinople. However, he hesitated to accept the position because his see was cut off from full communion with Rome. This division between Constantinople and Rome had occurred during the time of his predecessor. Nonetheless, Tarasius agreed to take on the role upon receiving assurances that the issue of communion would be resolved. To settle the dispute over the use of holy images within the Church, Tarasius convoked a Council on 1 August 786. However, this council was met with opposition from Iconoclasts who vehemently opposed the veneration of images. Due to riots and unrest, the council was reconvened in 787 in Nicea. During the Second Council of Nicea, which lasted from 24 September to 23 October 787, the council fathers unanimously determined that the Church was in favor of the use of images. This decision was subsequently approved by the Pope, bridging the gap between Constantinople and Rome. Throughout his tenure as Patriarch, Tarasius continued to exemplify his commitment to the Church and the poor. He dedicated himself to charitable works and became known as the Father of the Poor due to his relentless efforts to alleviate their suffering. In 806, Emperor Nicephorus I, who had succeeded Irene, repudiated his wife and sought to "marry" a servant with the help of a priest. Tarasius, standing against this immoral act, boldly condemned the emperor's actions. As a result of his defiance, Tarasius was briefly imprisoned. Saint Tarasius of Constantinople passed away on 25 February 806 in Constantinople. He died of natural causes, leaving a legacy marked by his unwavering faith, asceticism, and dedication to the Church and the poor. His relics are preserved in the church of San Zaccaria in Venice, Italy. While Saint Tarasius of Constantinople does not have a designated patronage, he is venerated as a spiritual model and an important figure in the history of the Church. His feast days are celebrated on 18 February in the Roman Martyrology and on 25 February in the Byzantine Rite. Although his representation is not explicitly mentioned, he is often depicted in religious artwork as a bishop or a monk. Saint Tarasius of Constantinople was canonized before the official process of canonization was established and is therefore considered a pre-congregation saint.