A rare event in the Catholic Church, Pope Francis on Friday January 21 declared Saint Irenaeus of Lyon (2nd century) "
Doctor of the Church
", a title recognizing his doctrinal contribution to which a handful of theologians were raised, announced the Vatican.
Saint Irenaeus of Lyons (c. 120-202) "
was a spiritual and theological bridge between Christians of the East and the West
", indicates the pope in a decree published on Friday.
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Originally from Asia Minor, Irenaeus, second bishop of Lyon, is considered the first great theologian in history.
With this announcement, the Vatican now recognizes 37 “
Doctors of the Church
”, all saints, including Thomas Aquinas and Teresa of Avila, for their contribution in the fields of theology and faith.
The last Frenchwoman raised to this title was Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, proclaimed “
doctor
” in 1997 by John Paul II.
