January 27–John Chrysostom, Preacher

This has been a busy week for festivals and commemorations! It doesn’t happen too often that there are four such days in a row, (although there are a few other instances of it throughout the year). Today is the commemoration of the Preacher John Chrysostom. That we could all show the faith he demonstrated in saying his final words on this earth!

From the LCMS website:

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 simple but direct messages 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.” 

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