Today we remember and give
thanks to God for John Chrysostom, Preacher. Given the added name of
Chrysostom, which means "golden-mouthed" in Greek, Saint John was a
dominant force in the fourth-century Christian church. Born in Antioch around the year
347, John was instructed in the Christian faith by his pious mother, Anthusa.
After serving in a number of Christian offices, including acolyte and lector,
John was ordained a presbyter and given preaching responsibilities. His was one
of the greatest preachers in the history of the Church and his sermons found an
audience well beyond his home town. In 398, John Chrysostom was made Patriarch
of Constantinople. His determination to reform the church, court, and city
there brought him into conflict with established authorities. Eventually, he
was exiled from his adopted city. Although removed from his parishes and
people, he continued writing and preaching until the time of his death in 407.
It is reported that his final words were: "Glory be to God for all things.
Amen."
Collect of the Day:
O
God, You gave to Your servant John Chrysostom grace to proclaim the Gospel with
eloquence and power. As pastor of the
great congregations of Antioch and Constantinople, he fearlessly bore reproach
for the honor of Your name. Mercifully
grant to all pastors such excellence in preaching and fidelity in ministering
Your Word that Your people shall be partakers of the divine nature; through
Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one
God, now and forever.
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