(ca. 347-407)
His life
+ John was born in Antioch but left the city while still a young man to live as a hermit in the desert. Due to poor health, he returned the city and was ordained a priest. He became known as a gifted preacher.
+ Consecrated archbishop of Constantinople, he continued preaching, setting high moral standards in a city that was highly politicized and dominated by the wealthy.
+ On two separate occasions John was forced into exile by the imperial court and the jealousy of his enemies. He died in exile in 408. After his death, his body was returned to Constantinople in a solemn procession and he was mourned by many who knew and loved him.
+ Saint John Chrysostom is honored was honored as a “Father of the Church” by the Council of Chalcedon and proclaimed a Doctor of the Church in 1568. He is honored as the patron saint of preachers.
+ His surname “Chrysostom” (meaning “golden-mouthed”) was given to him in the sixth century in honor of his eloquence and wisdom.
Spiritual bonus
According to long-standing tradition, Christians celebrate the dedication of churches with special solemnity. On September 13, the Church remembers the dedication of the basilicas built on Mount Calvary and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.
“One man filled with zeal is enough to transform a people.”—Saint John Chrysostom
Prayer
O God, strength of those who hope in you,
who willed that the Bishop Saint John Chrysostom
should be illustrious by his wonderful eloquence
and his experience of suffering,
grant us, we pray,
that, instructed by his teachings,
we may be strengthened through the example
of his invincible patience.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
(from The Roman Missal)
Saint profiles prepared by Brother Silas Henderson, S.D.S.
And today we celebrate...