Saint John Chrysostom

Saint John Chrysostom is one of the most well-known preachers in Church history. His name “Chrysostom” means “golden mouth.” He was called this because of his strong preaching and clear way of speaking. His real name was John of Antioch, but most people know him by his nickname.

John lived during the fourth and early fifth centuries. He became the Archbishop of Constantinople, one of the most important cities at the time. He preached often, taught the people, and cared for the poor. He spoke boldly, even when it caused him trouble.

John did not try to please powerful people. He spoke the truth, even if it was risky. He told the rich to help the poor. He told leaders to act justly. This made many enemies for him, including people in the Church and in the royal court.

John is honored as a saint by both the Catholic and Orthodox Churches. He is also one of the Doctors of the Church. His sermons and writings are still read today. He remains a strong example of someone who loved God, cared for the poor, and told the truth with courage.

John was born around the year 349 in the city of Antioch. This city was in the eastern part of the Roman Empire. His father died when John was young, so he was raised by his mother. Her name was Anthusa. She was a Christian and raised John with care and faith.

John was very smart. He studied under a teacher named Libanius, who was not a Christian. Libanius was proud of John and once said that John would have been his best student, if the Christians had not taken him. This shows that John stood out, even as a young man.

As a young adult, John was baptized and chose to live a strict Christian life. He spent some time living in the mountains with monks. He prayed, fasted, and studied Scripture. He later returned to the city because his health grew weak. But the time in the mountains helped shape his faith.

After he returned, he was ordained a deacon, and later a priest. He began preaching often in the city of Antioch. His sermons were clear and direct. People came to listen to him because he explained the Bible in a way that made sense. He also challenged people to live better lives.

John preached in Antioch for many years. He spoke to large crowds. He explained Scripture simply so that people could understand. He also taught about daily life. He talked about kindness, honesty, and caring for the poor.

At one point, the people in Antioch rioted. They tore down statues of the emperor. The leaders were afraid that the emperor would punish the city. During this time, John preached a famous group of sermons called the “Homilies on the Statues.” He told the people to stay calm and turn back to God.

These sermons helped the city. The emperor did not destroy Antioch. John’s calm words helped keep the peace. He reminded the people that God is patient and full of mercy. He also reminded them to live good lives, even when things are hard.

John also spoke out against sin in the city. He told the rich not to be greedy. He told people to stop going to the theater if it was full of bad behavior. He was not afraid to tell people the truth, even if they did not like it. His honesty made him loved by many, but also hated by some.

In the year 398, John was made Archbishop of Constantinople. This was a very big job. It was one of the most important cities in the empire. Many people lived there, and there were many problems in the Church.

John worked hard to clean up the Church. Some bishops and priests were lazy or greedy. John removed some from their jobs. He also tried to stop fancy living among the clergy. He lived simply and gave money to the poor. This upset many people in power.

John also spoke against the royal court. The Empress Eudoxia did not like this. She and some bishops joined together to remove him. John was sent into exile more than once. Still, he kept writing letters and encouraging others.

Even in exile, John did not stop. He continued to teach and guide people through his letters. His health grew worse. He died in the year 407 while being moved to another place. His last words were, “Glory be to God for all things.”

John wrote many sermons, letters, and Bible commentaries. He is one of the most important writers in Church history. He helped many people understand Scripture. His writing is clear and practical. He wrote about the Eucharist, prayer, and helping the poor.

John believed that preaching should help people live better lives. He said that it is not enough to hear the Word of God. People must also live it. He warned against pride, laziness, and love of money. He encouraged generosity, prayer, and fasting.

He also believed that the Church should care for the poor. He said that feeding the hungry is as important as worship. He told people that what they do to the poor, they do to Christ. These teachings are still shared in the Church today.

His writings are used by both Catholics and Orthodox Christians. His thoughts on Scripture and moral life are still studied by priests and teachers. Even after many centuries, his words still guide people.

After his death, John’s name grew in honor. People remembered his courage, his teaching, and his care for the poor. Though he had enemies during his life, later Church leaders praised him. In the year 438, his relics were brought back to Constantinople.

He was declared a saint not long after his death. The Catholic Church later named him a Doctor of the Church, a title given to saints whose writings help teach the faith. The Orthodox Church also honors him as one of the Three Holy Hierarchs.

His main feast day in the Catholic Church is September 13. In the Eastern Orthodox Church, he is also remembered on January 27 and November 13. He is the patron saint of preachers, orators, and those who face criticism for speaking the truth.

John Chrysostom’s life reminds us to speak clearly, care for others, and stay faithful even in hard times. His voice still speaks today, helping many follow Jesus with courage and love.

On Living Simply: The Golden Voice of John Chrysostom

On Living Simply: The Golden Voice of John Chrysostom is a small book filled with short, easy-to-read quotes from Saint John Chrysostom’s sermons. The focus is on wealth, how to use it wisely, and how to live simply. The book is good for daily reading and reflection. It fits well into a morning routine or quiet time. The quotes are short but clear. They offer old wisdom for modern life. Readers can mark their favorite parts and come back to them often. It’s a helpful book for anyone looking to live with more purpose and less excess.