Diaconate and service in Antioch John Chrysostom

john ordained deacon in 381 saint meletius of antioch not in communion alexandria , rome. after death of meletius, john separated himself followers of meletius, without joining paulinus, rival of meletius bishopric of antioch. after death of paulinus ordained presbyter (priest) in 386 evagrius, successor of paulinus. destined later bring reconciliation between flavian of antioch, alexandria, , rome, bringing 3 sees communion first time in seventy years.

in antioch, on course of twelve years (386–397), john gained popularity because of eloquence of public speaking @ golden church, antioch s cathedral, insightful expositions of bible passages , moral teaching. valuable of works period homilies on various books of bible. emphasised charitable giving , concerned spiritual , temporal needs of poor. spoke against abuse of wealth , personal property:

do wish honour body of christ? not ignore him when naked. not pay him homage in temple clad in silk, neglect him outside cold , ill-clad. said: body same said: saw me hungry , gave me no food , , whatever did least of brothers did me ... if eucharistic table overloaded golden chalices when brother dying of hunger? start satisfying hunger , left may adorn altar well.

a sculpture of john chrysostom in saint patrick s cathedral, new york city

his straightforward understanding of scriptures – in contrast alexandrian tendency towards allegorical interpretation – meant themes of talks practical, explaining bible s application everyday life. such straightforward preaching helped chrysostom garner popular support. founded series of hospitals in constantinople care poor.

one incident happened during service in antioch illustrates influence of homilies. when chrysostom arrived in antioch, flavian, bishop of city, had intervene emperor theodosius on behalf of citizens had gone on rampage mutilating statues of emperor , family. during weeks of lent in 387, john preached more twenty homilies in entreated people see error of ways. these made lasting impression on general population of city: many pagans converted christianity result of homilies. result, theodosius vengeance not severe might have been.