Memorial of St. John Damascene, Priest and Doctor of the Church

Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2024

Location: Optional Memorial

St. John Damascene was born in Damascus, Syria. He succeeded his father as chief representative of the Christian community to the caliph in Damascus, then under Islamic rule. He was forced to resign in 719 because of his faith. He entered a monastery in the mountain wilderness between Jerusalem and the Dead Sea, and lived there until his death. Pope Leo XIII declared him a doctor of the Church in 1890. Learn more from Saint of the Day or the U.S. bishops. or find this saint on the 2024 Share Your Light Advent Calendar.