His legacy stands out for the power of his preaching, his defense of the faith and his commitment to those most in need. The feast of Saint John Chrysostom is celebrated alongside other names included in the Christian calendar.
SAINT JOHN CHRYSOSTOM
Saint John Chrysostom was born in Antioch, probably around the year 349. He received a solid education and, after a period devoted to ascetic life, was ordained a priest. From then on, he stood out for his homilies and his ability to explain Christian teachings clearly.
His name means “golden mouth,” a nickname linked to his extraordinary eloquence. Saint John Chrysostom defended a Church committed to the poor and denounced the injustices and excesses of the powerful, which led to numerous confrontations.
In 398, he was appointed patriarch of Constantinople. However, his criticism of the imperial court eventually led to his exile. He died in exile on September 14, 407, and was recognized as a Doctor of the Church for his important contribution to theology and Christian preaching.
WHY ARE THE SAINTS CELEBRATED?
The celebration of saints' days has become part of our culture through the Christian tradition established in Spain. But what does it really mean to celebrate a saint's day? Catholicism has set aside each day of the year to remember and commemorate important Christians who also suffered persecution from those who rejected the Catholic faith.
The Roman Martyrology lists the names in the calendar of saints as we know it. The name refers to a kind of encyclopedia that the Vatican updates by adding new saints after their canonization.
