Saint John Chrysostom: Life, Teachings, and Day of Remembrance

The Orthodox Church commemorates the memory of one of the most significant theologians in its history - John Chrysostom. A figure that remains vivid in the religious world to this day, he is one of the three designated as "ecumenical teachers", alongside Saint Basil the Great of Caesarea and Saint Gregory the Theologian. This trio of saints are fundamental to Eastern Christianity, whose teachings and deeds continue to influence believers around the world.

John Chrysostom, known for his exceptional talent as a preacher and theologian, left behind the most extensive theological work in the history of the Eastern Church. His writings are a primary source of theological thought and continue to be studied and cited by scholars and clergy.

Saint John Chrysostom was canonized as a saint in 438. The Church honors his memory on several dates throughout the year. The main day of commemoration is November 13th. Additionally, the Translation of the relics of the saint on January 27th, as well as the Day of the Three Holy Hierarchs - January 30th, when Saints Basil the Great and Gregory the Theologian are celebrated together with him, are also honored.

Born in Antioch, John came from a noble family. His father, Secundus, was a military commander, and his mother, Anthusa, professed the Christian faith. Initially, John was educated by the pagan philosophers Libanius and Andragathius in his hometown, and later devoted himself to the study of rhetoric and philosophy in Athens.

After completing his education, John practiced as a lawyer and held a position in the civil service, defending people in court cases. He was baptized at the age of 26 and chose the ascetic life. In 381 he was ordained a deacon, and in 386 he became a presbyter. From that moment his fame grew, and because of his exceptional eloquence, he received the nickname "Chrysostom". During this period, he created the series of sermons "Against the Jews", which laid the foundation of the anti-Jewish tradition in the Christian church. In 398, Presbyter John was ordained as Archbishop of Constantinople, taking one of the most important church positions.

His courage and impartiality in his sermons earned him many enemies during his lifetime, both among the ruling aristocracy and in some church circles. His insistence on upholding moral principles and his criticism of the vices of the time did not go unpunished.

As a result of these conflicts, at the Council of Chalcedon in 403, convened by his enemy, the Patriarch of Alexandria Theophilus, John was stripped of his rank. However, his flock remained firmly behind him and returned him to the patriarchal throne. As Patriarch of Constantinople, he underwent three exiles due to the interference of secular authorities in church affairs. Until the end of his life, Saint John Chrysostom was a victim of church intrigues and persecution, but despite this, he did not stop his missionary and preaching activities.

Empress Eudoxia exiled him to the Caucasus, in the Armenian city of Cucus, and then, in 406, to the distant Pityus (today Pitsunda) on the Caucasian coast of the Black Sea. The Holy Father died in exile on September 14, 407, in the city of Comana Pontica, during the Holy Liturgy. On this day, the memory of Eulogius, Archbishop of Alexandria, is also commemorated. It is also celebrated on February 13. The name Eulogius, which in translation means "good word" or "praise", comes from the Greek words eu, meaning "good", and logos - "word".

On November 13, all those who bear the names Eulogius, Eulogia and their derivatives celebrate their name day.