Today the Church celebrates the liturgical memorial of Saint John of Damascus, also known as Saint John Damasene. Born and raised in Damascus (Syria) either in 675 A.D. or in 676 A.D., he died at the monastery known as Mar Saba, located near Jerusalem on 4 December 749.
He wrote extensive work expounding the Christian faith, and also composed hymns which are still used both liturgically in Eastern Christian practice throughout the world and in Western Lutheranism at Easter time. John of Damascus is considered to be one of the Fathers of the Eastern Orthodox Church. He is best known for his strong defence of icons. The Catholic Church regards him as a Doctor of the Church. He is often referred to as the Doctor of the Assumption due to his writings on the Assumption of Mary.
Today, let us unite our prayer with the praises offered by Saint John of Damascus. With him, let us make Jesus' prayer our own: I bless you Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for though you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, you have revealed them two little ones (Lk 10:21).
Have a great day.
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