
The word chrysostom in Greek means "golden mouthed" and was given to John because of his great preaching ability. He was born in Antioch in the year 349 and became Archbishop of Constantinople, now the city of Istanbul. He worked hard against the abuse of authority in the church and was eventually exiled by the emperor because he was so outspoken on behalf of church independence and against the interference of the politicians. He died in Turkey in the year 404.
The gospel chosen for today's feast is the parable of the sower going out to sow. Here the church sees in the wonderful preaching of John the sowing of the seed. it is well recorded that John by his preaching and his austere life, influenced many people. His writings, some of which have come down to us intact, reveal a man of great faith and intellect. St John Chrysostom is commemorated widely in the Roman, Orthodox and Eastern churches as well as the Anglican and Lutheran denomination