St. John Chrysostom
Archbishop of Constantinople and Doctor of the Church
Feast Day: September 13
Biography
St. John (c. 347–407) was born in Antioch, in Syria, and raised by his widowed mother, Anthusa. He studied rhetoric under the famous teacher Libanius and seemed destined for a public career, but after his baptism he turned to prayer and study, living for several years as a monk and hermit in the mountains near the city. His health broken by severe austerities, he returned to Antioch, was ordained a deacon in 381 and a priest in 386, and for twelve years preached in the city's churches. His sermons on the Scriptures, especially on Matthew, John, and the letters of St. Paul, were so eloquent that he was later called Chrysostom, 'golden mouth.' In 398 he was made archbishop of Constantinople, the imperial capital. There he reformed the clergy, founded hospitals, and spoke out boldly against luxury and neglect of the poor, earning the hostility of the Empress Eudoxia and of powerful churchmen. A synod of his opponents deposed him in 403, and he was sent into exile. Forced to travel on foot under harsh conditions, he died at Comana in Pontus on September 14, 407. According to early accounts, his last words were 'Glory to God for all things.' He is a Doctor of the Church, and the Byzantine Churches still celebrate the Divine Liturgy that bears his name.
Patronages
Symbols
Prayer
St. John Chrysostom, golden-mouthed preacher of the Word, you proclaimed the truth with courage and loved the poor as Christ Himself. Pray for all who preach and teach the faith. Help me to hear the Scriptures with an open heart, to serve those in need, and to say in every trial, 'Glory to God for all things.' Amen.
Asking for Intercession
Catholics ask saints to pray with us and for us, as we ask friends on earth. St. John Chrysostom, who lives in God's presence, intercedes before His throne. Speak from your heart: “St. John Chrysostom, please pray for me…” You may also pray the prayer above or include this intention in your Rosary.