Bishop of Antioch, he was exiled several times during the Arian controversies. He held to the faith of Nicaea, worked for Church unity, and died while presiding over the Council of Constantinople.
Life
Saint Meletius of Antioch was a fourth-century bishop from Asia Minor. He became bishop of Antioch around 360, but amid the conflict with the Arians he was exiled several times by emperors. The Church of Antioch was split into several factions, and that division was a deep sorrow throughout his time as bishop.
Though often misunderstood, he was respected by Eastern bishops such as Saint Basil the Great, and he is known to have baptized the young John Chrysostom. He died in 381 while presiding over the Council of Constantinople, and Saint Gregory of Nyssa delivered his funeral oration.
Spirituality
Meletius's spirituality is a gentleness that seeks peace even amid division. Through repeated exile and misunderstanding he chose patience over resentment and served to the end, longing for the divided Church to be one. His mild character gave comfort and confidence to many.
Reflection
Meletius never lost his gentleness in a divided community. If there is conflict in your family or community, what word or action could you offer first for peace today?