He told wealthy Christians that decorating churches with gold while the poor starved outside was an insult to Christ. The empress Eudoxia took his sermons personally. He was exiled twice, and died in 407 on a forced march to an even more remote exile, saying, “Glory be to God for all things.”
Historical Context
His most famous line on the poor: “Do you wish to honour the body of Christ? Do not neglect him when he is naked.” The Eastern Orthodox and Byzantine Catholic churches still celebrate the Divine Liturgy that bears his name.
A September 13 Prayer
Lord, on the feast of St John Chrysostom,
bless those who preach your Word.
Give them golden mouths and honest hearts.
Let me honour Christ in the poor, not only at the altar.
And in good times and bad, teach me to say with John:
glory be to God for all things.
Amen.
For Preachers
St John Chrysostom, pray for preachers,
that they speak truth with love and courage.
Amen.
Glory to God for All Things
Glory be to God for all things.
Best Times for This Prayer
- On 13 September.
- Before preaching, teaching or speaking.
- When suffering for doing right.
Scripture Connection
“In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18
John’s dying words were Paul’s advice in practice. He thanked God even on the road to exile.
Related prayers
For 11 September, see the Never Forget 9/11 Prayer. For later in the month, the September 22 Prayer and September 27 Prayer.