Saint John Chrysostom is one of the most celebrated Fathers of the Church—renowned as a preacher, teacher, and shepherd of souls. His eloquence earned him the name “Chrysostom” (Greek for “golden-mouthed”), and his fearless devotion to the truth made him both loved by the faithful and opposed by powerful rulers. Today, he is honored as a Doctor of the Church and one of the great pillars of Eastern Christianity.

Life and Vocation

John was born around 349 AD in Antioch, one of the great cities of the Roman Empire. Raised by his widowed mother, Anthusa, he received an excellent education in rhetoric and philosophy. Early on, he was recognized as a gifted speaker, but he turned away from worldly ambition to devote himself to God. He lived as an ascetic for several years, immersing himself in Scripture and prayer, before returning to Antioch where he was ordained a deacon and then a priest.

As a preacher in Antioch, John became famous for his powerful homilies. He spoke with clarity, conviction, and compassion, addressing both the spiritual and moral needs of his people. He called out greed, injustice, and sin without fear, while also consoling the poor and suffering with the hope of Christ. His preaching drew large crowds, and many considered him the greatest orator of his time.

In 398 AD, John was appointed Archbishop of Constantinople, the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire. In this high office, he brought reform, worked for the poor, and demanded integrity from both clergy and laity. He sold much of the Church’s luxury items to provide for the needy, and he confronted corruption wherever he found it.

However, his boldness stirred resentment. His denouncements of excess angered the Empress Eudoxia and many influential figures. Twice he was exiled for his refusal to compromise the Gospel. Even in exile, his letters and teachings continued to strengthen the faithful.

Death and Legacy

Saint John Chrysostom died in exile in 407 AD after suffering greatly for his fidelity to Christ. His last words were, “Glory be to God for all things.” Though silenced on earth, his voice never faded.

Chrysostom’s writings remain some of the most treasured in Christian tradition. His homilies, commentaries, and letters reveal a deep love for Scripture and a burning desire for holiness. He is especially remembered for his insights on the Eucharist and the Liturgy. In fact, the Divine Liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom is still celebrated daily in the Eastern Churches today.

The Church honors him as one of the Three Holy Hierarchs (alongside St. Basil the Great and St. Gregory Nazianzen). In both East and West, he is remembered as a Doctor of the Church and a fearless shepherd who would not bow to worldly powers. His courage, eloquence, and love for Christ’s flock make him a timeless model for priests and preachers.

Saint John Chrysostom’s life shows that true eloquence is not about pleasing words, but about speaking the truth in love. His legacy endures not only in his writings but in the countless faithful who continue to pray his liturgy and draw strength from his example.

Saint John Chrysostom, pray for us!