Saint John Chrysostom: The Golden-Mouthed Bishop and Advocate for the Poor

Saint John Chrysostom, also known as John of Antioch or John the Golden-Mouthed, was a Christian bishop, theologian, and orator who lived in the 4th century AD. He is considered one of the greatest preachers in Christian history and is a Doctor of the Church.

John Chrysostom was born in Antioch, modern-day Turkey, in 347 AD. He studied law and rhetoric before becoming a Christian and dedicating his life to the Church. He was ordained a priest in 386 AD and became the bishop of Constantinople in 398 AD.

During his tenure as bishop, John Chrysostom was known for his powerful and eloquent sermons, which earned him the nickname "Golden-Mouthed." He also advocated for the poor and criticized the wealthy for their excesses. This led to conflicts with the imperial court and ultimately to his exile in 404 AD. He died in 407 AD while still in exile.

Saint John Chrysostom wrote a number of biblical commentaries and sermons that are still widely read and studied today. He also wrote several treatises on the spiritual life, including On the Priesthood, On the Incomprehensible Nature of God, and On the Statutes.

John Chrysostom was canonized as a saint by the Eastern Orthodox Church in the 5th century and by the Roman Catholic Church in the 12th century. He is the patron saint of orators and preachers, as well as of the city of Constantinople.

His feast day is celebrated on September 13 in the Eastern Orthodox Church and on January 27 in the Roman Catholic Church.