Sunday, September 12, 2010

Celebrating another great Saint

Tomorrow is the feast day of St. John Chrysostom from the 4-5th century. He was born in Antioch around 349. He studied extensively and embraced a life of asceticism. He was ordained a priest and was a distinguished preacher achieving great spiritual results among those who heard him preach. He was elected bisop of Constantinople in 397 and was a capable pastor, committed to reforming the life of the clergy and the faithful.

He faced many challenges and twice was forced into exile by the imperial court and had many enemies becuase of his effectiveness as a bishop. He died in 407.

His preaching and writing explained Catholic doctrine and presented the ideal Christian life. For this reason he is called Chrysostom, or Golden Mouth.

In the official prayer for his feast day we pray that we may learn from his teaching and gain courage from his patient endurance!

St. John Chrysostom, pray for us!

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