Every September 13, the Catholic Church celebrates Saint John Chrysostom (347-407), patriarch of Constantinople, Father and Doctor of the Church, patron of those who preach the Gospel.
‘Golden mouth’
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The name “chrysostom” began to be used to talk about John of Antioch – the name by which the saint was known – approximately a century after his death, as a recognition of his eloquence, the beauty and depth of his preaching, and the rhetorical power of his writings.
“Chrysostom” can be translated as “golden mouth” (juxtaposition of two Greek terms: chrysós‘gold’, and stoma‘mouth’). Saint John of Antioch was bishop (patriarch) of Constantinople and is considered one of the four great Fathers of the Church of the East. At the same time, he has been routinely recognized as one of the greatest orators of all time.
Upright and supportive pastor
Saint John Chrysostom was born in Antioch in the year 347, and was baptized at the age of 23.
After having lived as a hermit, in contemplative silence, he was ordained a priest, and began to become known for his sermons.
Encouraged by John’s good reputation, Arcadius – Eastern Roman Emperor – asked Theophilus, Patriarch of Alexandria, to appoint him bishop of Constantinople. As a pastor he dedicated himself to teaching right doctrine, with due zeal and care, while harshly criticizing the Judaizing forms of Christianity, as well as the luxuries and indifference of the emperors towards the poor. He got rid of superfluous goods acquired irresponsibly by some members of the Church, and with the wealth obtained he attended to the needs of many disadvantaged people.
He demanded that priests and monks dress simply, as well as eat in moderation; He asked women for modesty and, for everyone, mercy within the temples. Likewise, he was concerned about the catechetical formation of the faithful.
Protector of the poor, women and families
Pope Benedict XVI recalled in a general audience on September 26, 2007:
“Because of his concern for the poor, Saint John was also called ‘the almoner’. As an attentive administrator he managed to create highly appreciated charitable institutions. His entrepreneurial spirit in different fields made some see him as a dangerous rival…
…However, as a true pastor, he treated everyone in a cordial and fatherly manner. In particular, he showed deep respect for women and dedicated special attention to marriage and family. “He invited the faithful to participate in liturgical life, which he made splendid and attractive with brilliant creativity.”
Chrysostom’s firm attitude and his pastoral zeal caused him friction with influential people and misunderstandings among the Christians themselves. It is true that he made powerful enemies – among whom was Eudoxia, wife of Emperor Arcadius – but fundamentally the affection and respect of the Christian people. He lived his last days in exile and died on September 14, 407. Those who accompanied him in his agony testified to his last words: “Glory be given to God for everything.”
A message for today’s priest: “Your service is the greatest!”
Saint John Chrysostom said:
“If you meet a priest and an angel on the road, go kiss the priest’s hand, since the angels, although they want to be able to administer the Sacrament of the Eucharist, cannot; since this is typical only of human beings.”
Dear Saint John Chrysostom, pray for us! Intercede for all your priest sons!
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If you want to delve deeper into the life and work of Saint John Chrysostom, we recommend reading this article from the Catholic Encyclopedia: https://ec.aciprensa.com/wiki/San_Juan_Cris%C3%B3stomo.
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