Melito of Sardis

About Melito of Sardis

Melito was Bishop of Sardis in the 2nd century and a prolific writer, though most of his works are lost. His "Paschal Homily," rediscovered in the 20th century, is a powerful early Christian sermon on Christ's Passion and Resurrection, using rich typology connecting Old Testament Passover to Christ. Melito wrote an apology to Emperor Marcus Aurelius, defended the authority of the Old Testament, and contributed to early Christological thought. He was a Quartodeciman (celebrating Easter on Passover date) and opposed Gnosticism. His homily shows early Christian liturgy and theology in development.