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John XIV KalekasPatriarch of Constantinople from 1333 to 1347
Date of Birth: 01.01.1282
Country:  Operator |
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John XIV Kalekas
John XIV Kalekas served as the Patriarch of Constantinople from 1333 to 1347. Born in Thrace of humble origins, he rose quickly through the ranks with the patronage of John Cantacuzene, who pressured bishops to elect him as patriarch.
The Hesychast Controversy
During Kalekas' patriarchate, a major theological dispute arose between St. Gregory Palamas, Archbishop of Thessalonica, and Barlaam of Calabria (see Hesychasm). While Kalekas was not an outright supporter of Palamas, he sided with his followers, who, with Cantacuzene's backing, triumphed at the 1341 synod, condemning Barlaam.
Intrigue Against Cantacuzene
As Cantacuzene became regent, Kalekas began scheming against him, seeking to undermine his influence with Empress Anna. He called for a new synod that condemned Palamas' followers, who in turn secured his condemnation and exile. Kalekas died shortly after.
