Our Footsteps to Follow series looks to the example of those who have gone before us to provide inspiration and guidance as we encounter the Love of God in creation, contemplation, and community.
In the late fourth and early fifth century, John Chrysostom served as Archbishop of Constantinople after gaining popularity in Antioch for his eloquence in preaching and his straightforward Biblical teaching. So beautiful were his sermons and teaching that after his death, he received the name "Chrysostom" meaning golden mouthed. However, his emphasis on gospel themes of humility and generosity to the poor set him at odds with the opulent lifestyle in the imperial city and eventually lead to his exile.
Perhaps most familiar to us is the prayer attributed to John Chrysostom that ends Morning and Evening Prayer. This beautiful prayer encourages us to pray in community, submitting our desires to one another and ultimately to God with faith that these desires will be fulfilled not as we see fit but as God knows best.
A Prayer of St John Chrysostom.
Almighty God, you have given us grace at this time, with one accord to make our common supplications to you; and you have promised through your well-beloved Son that when two or three are gathered together in his Name you will grant their requests: Fulfill now, O Lord, our desires and petitions as may be best for us; granting us in this world knowledge of your truth, and in the age to come life everlasting. Amen.