Early Life and Education
St. John Chrysostom was born around 347 AD in Antioch (modern-day Turkey). His father, a high-ranking military officer, died when John was young, leaving his mother, Anthusa, to raise him. Despite being a widow, she ensured that John received an excellent education. He studied under Libanius, a famous pagan rhetorician, and excelled in rhetoric and philosophy.
After his education, John initially pursued a career in law but soon turned toward a religious life. He was baptized as a Christian around 370 AD and became a monk, dedicating himself to ascetic practices. He spent years in seclusion, living as a hermit, where he memorized large portions of Scripture. However, his harsh lifestyle took a toll on his health, forcing him to return to Antioch.
Rise to Prominence
John was ordained a deacon in 381 AD and later a priest in 386 AD. His powerful sermons quickly gained popularity. He spoke against corruption, wealth disparity, and moral decay, earning him both admiration and opposition. His eloquence and deep understanding of Scripture earned him the title “Chrysostom”, meaning “Golden Mouth.”
Patriarch of Constantinople
In 398 AD, John was appointed Archbishop of Constantinople, the capital of the Byzantine Empire. As Patriarch, he enforced strict reforms, challenged the luxurious lifestyles of the clergy, and denounced imperial excesses. His fiery sermons often targeted Empress Eudoxia, who saw his words as a direct attack.
His unwavering stance against corruption made him enemies at the imperial court. He was exiled twice, first in 403 AD and again in 404 AD, due to the political maneuvering of his rivals, particularly Theophilus, Patriarch of Alexandria.
Exile and Death
During his second exile, John was sent on a grueling march to Pityus (modern Georgia), but he never reached his destination. His health deteriorated, and on September 14, 407 AD, he died in Comana, Pontus. His last words were:
“Glory to God for all things.”
Legacy and Canonization
Despite his hardships, John Chrysostom’s legacy endured. His writings, including commentaries on the Bible and liturgical works, remain influential. The Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom, still used in Eastern Orthodox and Byzantine Catholic Churches, bears his name.
He was canonized a saint, and in 438 AD, his relics were returned to Constantinople with great honor. In 1568, Pope Pius V declared him a Doctor of the Church.
St. John Chrysostom is venerated as one of the greatest preachers in Christian history. His feast day is celebrated on September 13 (Western Church) and November 13 (Eastern Orthodox Church).