CHAPTER XXX

GEORGE BISHOP OF ANTIOCH, AND THE BISHOP OF JERUSALEM. AFTER THE DEPOSITION OF CYRIL, THREE BISHOPS SUCCESSIVELY SUCCEED TO HIS BISHOPRIC: RESTORATION OF CYRIL TO THE CHURCH AT JERUSALEM

DURING this period, Athanasius was obliged to remain in concealment, and George returned to Alexandria, and commenced a cruel persecution against the Pagans, and against the Christians who differed from him in opinion. He compelled both parties to offer worship in the mode he indicated, and where opposition was made he enforced obedience by compulsion. He was hated by the rulers on account of his assumption and arrogance; and the multitude detested him on account of his tyranny and power. The Pagans regarded him with even greater aversion than the Christians, because he prohibited them from offering sacrifices, and from celebrating their ancient festivals, and because he had, on one occasion, introduced the governor of Egypt and armed soldiery into the city, and despoiled their temples. This was, in fact, as we shall hereafter see, the cause of his death.

On the deposition of Cyril, Herennius obtained the bishopric of Jerusalem; he was succeeded by Heraclius, and to Heraclius succeeded Hilarius; but on the accession of the Emperor Theodosius, Cyril was again installed in his bishopric.