None of the Fathers of the early church is better known or loved than St John Chrysostom, and none of his works is more popular than On the Priesthood. Its stylistic brilliance demonstrates the appropriateness of St John's enduring title, "the golden-mouthed." Yet the rhetorical eloquence of the work is not simply camouflage for lack of substance. As Graham Neville observes in his Introduction, Chrysostom "had a mind both practical and idealistic, that brought into close connection the evils and injustices of the world and the perfection of moral life demanded by the gospel." Chrysostom's unique gift for linking concrete observation and theological vision is nowhere more evident than in On the Priesthood. Its presence helps to account for the work's power to inspire and challenge Christians in all ages. Book jacket.
This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the original. Due to its age, it may contain imperfections such as marks, notations, marginalia and flawed pages. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions that are true to the original work.
This great orator addresses the question of wealth and poverty in the lives of people of his day. Yet Chrysostom's words proclaim the truth of the Gospel to all people of all times.
"On the Priesthood: A Treatise in Six Books" by Saint John Chrysostom, translated by Rev. Patrick Boyle, C.M., is a seminal work that delves into the profound spiritual and theological dimensions of the priestly vocation. Written by one of the early Church Fathers, this treatise offers an in-depth exploration of the responsibilities, challenges, and spiritual requirements of the priesthood. The treatise is divided into six books, each addressing different aspects of the priestly office. Saint John Chrysostom, renowned for his eloquence and deep theological insights, begins by discussing the divine nature and immense responsibility of the priesthood. He emphasizes the sacred role of the priest as a mediator between God and humanity, tasked with administering the sacraments, preaching the Gospel, and guiding the faithful. Chrysostom then examines the personal qualities necessary for those who aspire to the priesthood. He underscores the importance of moral integrity, deep spiritual life, and unwavering commitment to the pastoral mission. The treatise highlights the virtues of humility, patience, and self-sacrifice as essential traits for a priest, drawing on scriptural examples and personal reflections. A significant portion of the work is dedicated to the challenges and temptations that priests face. Chrysostom offers practical advice on how to overcome these difficulties through prayer, study, and reliance on God's grace. He also discusses the dangers of pride, ambition, and worldly distractions, urging priests to maintain their focus on their spiritual duties and the well-being of their congregations. The treatise also addresses the theological foundation of the priesthood, exploring its biblical roots and ecclesiastical traditions. Chrysostom articulates a vision of the priesthood that is deeply rooted in the life and teachings of Christ, emphasizing the continuity between the apostolic ministry and the contemporary priestly office. Throughout the six books, Chrysostom's profound respect and reverence for the priesthood are evident. He views the priestly vocation as a divine calling that demands a life of holiness and dedication. His writings serve as both an inspiration and a guide for those in the priestly ministry, as well as for those considering this sacred vocation. Rev. Patrick Boyle's translation brings this classic work to a modern audience, preserving the eloquence and depth of Chrysostom's original text. Boyle's translation ensures that contemporary readers can access and appreciate the timeless wisdom and spiritual insights offered by one of the Church's greatest preachers. In summary, "On the Priesthood: A Treatise in Six Books" by Saint John Chrysostom, translated by Rev. Patrick Boyle, C.M., is a comprehensive and deeply spiritual examination of the priestly vocation. It provides valuable guidance and inspiration for priests and seminarians, as well as offering profound theological insights for all Christians interested in understanding the nature and significance of the priesthood.
After meditating on the Apostles and then on the Fathers of the early Church, as seen in his earlier works Jesus, the Apostles and the Early Church and Church Fathers, Pope Benedict XVI devoted his attention to the most influential Christian men from the fifth through the twelfth centuries. In his first book, Church Fathers, Benedict began with Clement of Rome and ended with Saint Augustine. In this volume, the Holy Father reflects on some of the greatest theologians of the Middle Ages: Benedict, Anselm, Bernard, and Gregory the Great, to name just a few. By exploring both the lives and the ideas of the great popes, abbots, scholars and missionaries who lived during the fall of the Roman Empire and the rise of Christendom, Pope Benedict XVI highlights the key elements of Catholic dogma and practice that remain the foundation stones not only of the Roman Catholic Church but of Christian society itself. This book is a wonderful way to get to know these later Church Fathers and Teachers and the tremendous spiritually rich patrimony they have bequeathed to us. "Without this vital sap, man is exposed to the danger of succumbing to the ancient temptation of seeking to redeem himself by himself." -- Pope Benedict XVI
