St John Chrysostom: A Gifted Speaker

Today in the book In Caelo et in Terra, we read about St John Chrysostom. Guess what Chrysostom means. I never would have guessed it myself. It means "golden mouth." From a young age, St John was interested in the local priest, who happened to be a saint, too. He followed him around and learned what his life was like. And then he became a priest himself. He lived a severely ascetical life until it started to threaten his health, then sensibly returned to town and began preaching vehemently about holiness and reform among the leaders of his home town. 

They leaders of his home town didn't appreciate that. They had him banned, and then they were marching him to an even more distant location when he died. His final words were, "Glory be to God for all things." You can read more about him here.

When you live a holy life (which we're all called to do) and especially when you encourage others to do the same, you're going to face opposition. In this world, we WILL have troubles. But take heart. He has overcome the world.

God, thanks for the great example and teachings of this fiery and eloquent man. St John Chrysostom, pray for us.