| − | John was born in [[Antioch]], a major city in the [[Roman Empire]]. His father Secundus was a high-ranking [[Syrian]] military officer who died shortly after his birth. He was raised by his mother Anthusa, who was a model of virtue. John was sent to the best schools of Antioch. The most famous orator of that period, the pagan Libanius, educated John in rhetoric, Greek language and literature. He was further educated in theology under Diodore of Tarsus, later known as bishop of Tarsus. He received Holy Baptism and was ordained a [[deacon]] by bishop Meletius. Four years later, Chrysostom resolved to live as an anchorite in one of the caves near Antioch. Due to declining health, he returned to Antioch after two years. In the year 386, Chrysostom was ordained priest by bishop Flavian. | + | John was born in [[Antioch]], a major city in the [[Roman Empire]]. His father Secundus was a high-ranking [[Syrian]] military officer who died shortly after his birth. He was raised by his mother Anthusa, who was a model of virtue. John was sent to the best schools of Antioch. The most famous orator of that period, the pagan Libanius, educated John in rhetoric, Greek language and literature. He was further educated in theology under Diodore of Tarsus, later known as bishop of Tarsus. He received Holy Baptism and was ordained a [[deacon]] by bishop Meletius. Four years later, Chrysostom resolved to live as an [[anchorite]] in one of the caves near Antioch. Due to declining health, he returned to Antioch after two years. In the year 386, Chrysostom was ordained priest by bishop Flavian. |