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John's father died when he was
young, and he was raised by a very pious mother. Well educated; studied
rhetoric under Libanius, one of the most famous orators of his day. Monk.
Preacher and priest for a dozen years in Syria. While there he developed a
stomach ailment that troubled him the rest of his life.
It was for his sermons that John earned the title "Chrysostom" (golden
mouthed). They were always on point, they explained the Scriptures with
clarity, and they sometimes went on for hours. Made a reluctant bishop of
Constantinople in 398, a move that involved him in imperial politics.
Criticized the rich for not sharing their wealth, fought to reform the
clergy, prevented the sale of ecclesiastical offices, called for fidelity
in marriage, encouraged practices of justice and charity.
Archbishop and Patriarch of Constantinople. Revised the Greek Liturgy.
Greek Father of the Church. Proclaimed Doctor of the Church in 451.
John's sermons caused nobles and bishops to work to remove him from his
diocese; twice exiled from his diocese. Banished to Pythius, and died on
the way.
"When you perceive that God is chastening you, fly not to his
enemies...but to his friends, the martyrs, the saints, and those who were
pleasing to him, and who have great power in God." John Chrysostom:
Orations 396AD
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