The life and work of St. John Damascene, Doctor of the Church, reveal a monk, theologian, and tireless defender of the faith in a time of intense controversy.
Born in Damascus (Syria) into a wealthy Christian family, John received an exceptional classical and theological education. This enabled him to master philosophy, science, and languages. After serving for several years in the civil administration of the Umayyad Caliphate, he embraced monastic life at the monastery of St. Sabas, near Jerusalem. He was ordained a priest and appointed titular preacher at the Basilica of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.
St. John of Damascus is remembered for his defense of sacred images during the iconoclastic crisis of the eighth century. Facing the emperors of Constantinople, he argued that, since the Son of God became flesh, it is legitimate to artistically represent Christ and the saints. His writings upheld the tradition of the Church.
Synthesis of Scripture, Liturgy, and Theology
His work ‘Exposition of the Orthodox Faith’ is often compared to St. Thomas Aquinas' Summa Theologica. In his treatise, he summarizes previous patristic teaching and offers a harmonious synthesis of Scripture, liturgy, and theological reflection. The Franciscan Directory highlights his contemplative spirit and his love for the Virgin Mary. He dedicated some of the most beautiful Marian texts to her.
The Pope Leo XIII proclaimed him Doctor of the Church in 1890. St. John Damascene is considered a bridge between East and West, a witness to the beauty of faith, and a teacher of wisdom for the Church.
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