Saint John Damascene
Feast day: 4th December
Priest, Father and Doctor of the Church St John Damascene was known as one of the greatest poets of the Church. Born in Damascus in the 7th century his first occupation position was ‘chief revenue officer’ just like his father. He later became a monk at St Sabas, along with his adoptive brother. He wrote works explaining the Christian faith, and composed hymns which are still used throughout the world at Easter.
He often referred to as the Doctor of the Assumption due to his writings on the Assumption of Mary. He had a vision from the Blessed Virgin Mary instructing him to write poetry and many books. Later in his life a forged letter was given to Emperor Leo III whom then ordered the right hand of John to be severed off. This occurred, yet John prayed through the intercessions of Our Lady and his hand was restored.
St John, pray for us.
Originally posted 2014-12-02 19:41:31.