Saint of the Day: St. John Chrysostom | September 13

By SIDTP SoCom

Published on September 13, 2024

St. John Chrysostom, born around 349 AD in Antioch (modern-day Turkey), was a prominent early Christian leader known for his eloquence and dedication to the Church. His name, which means “Golden Mouth” in Greek, reflects his renowned oratory skills and impactful preaching.

John began his career as a monk and later became a priest. His sermons and teachings in Antioch gained him widespread recognition for their clarity and depth. His ability to communicate complex theological ideas in an accessible way earned him the admiration of many.

In 398 AD, John was appointed Archbishop of Constantinople, one of the most important positions in the Christian world at that time. As Archbishop, he continued to preach with great fervor and worked to reform the Church and its practices. He was known for his strong stance on social justice, advocating for the poor and criticizing the excesses of the wealthy and corrupt clergy.

Despite his efforts to promote righteousness and reform, John faced significant opposition from both political and ecclesiastical leaders who were uncomfortable with his bold reforms and outspoken nature. His tenure as Archbishop was marked by conflict, and he was eventually exiled from Constantinople in 404 AD.

St. John Chrysostom’s writings, including his homilies and letters, have had a lasting influence on Christian thought and practice. His emphasis on the importance of living a virtuous life and his commitment to preaching the Gospel continue to inspire Christians around the world. He is recognized as a Doctor of the Church, a title given to saints whose teachings have greatly contributed to Christian theology.

John Chrysostom was canonized as a saint by the early Church, and his feast day is celebrated on September 13th in the Western Church and January 27th in the Eastern Church.

 

Sources:
1. Markus, Robert A. St. John Chrysostom: The Early Church Fathers. Routledge, 2001.
2. Cross, F. L., and E. A. Livingstone, eds. The Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church. Oxford University Press, 2005.