HOMILY FOR THE MEMORIAL OF ST. JOHN CHRYSOSTOM (SEPTEMBER 13
SAINT JOHN CHRYSOSTOM (SEPTEMBER 13) Born in the year 349 in Antioch of Syria. After Baptism at the age of 20, he devoted himself to the study of the sacred scripture and the service of the church. Submitting himself for eleven years to the life of contemplation and asceticism, he became a deacon and then later a priest. He was called in the year 397 to become the Patriarch of Constantinopole. He became one of the famous bishops of the first century. However, he only exercised his episcopal responsibility freely for six years. Twice he was deposed and driven into exile by Empress Eudoxia. He died on 14 September 407 and is considered a Martyr of pastoral courage. Saint John fondly called "Chrysostom" which means "golden mouth", was popularly praised for his eloquence, clarity and firmness in preaching the word of God in a convincing manner. The word of God became a means by which St. John Chrysostom educated and enlightened the people of God. John's strenght...