Saint Anthusa, Mother of John Chrysostom

A life of faith

Anthusa was the wife of Secundus, a military commander in Syria, and the mother of John Chrysostom. Widowed while young, she devoted herself to raising her son. Her care enabled John to study with prominent teachers in Antioch, including Libanius and Andragathius. She is commemorated with John on November 13.

The Eastern Orthodox Church remembers saints in prayer and commemoration. Their lives offer examples for Christians learning to live their faith.

A reflection

Helping a child learn can take patient, ordinary effort. Consider how to support a young person’s education without deciding their future for them.

Read the Orthodox source

Feast dates follow the linked source. Local calendars and commemorations may vary. Themes describe a saint’s life; quiz suggestions do not assign a baptismal patron. Discuss choosing a patron saint with your priest.