On Repentance and Almsgiving (Fathers of the Church Patristic Series) Tra edition by Chrysostom, John (2005) Paperback

by Gus George Christo

St. John Chrysostom delivered nine homilies on repentance in Antioch of Syria sometime between 386 and 387. With conviction and certitude, he preached that repentance was a necessity for both the sinner and the righteous man. This volume presents Chrysostom's homilies on repentance and includes a sermon on almsgiving that he preached in Antioch during the winter months in 387.

Genres: Christianity, Religion, Spirituality

Paperback

First published January 8, 1997

Reviews

[Amanda Lauer · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of my goals this year was to read books of more substance to expand my knowledge of the Catholic Church. This book, which showcases 10 homilies on repentance and almsgiving by St. John Chrysostom, fit the bill ideally. Surprisingly enough, this book wasn't as difficult to read as I thought it might be. St. John was speaking to everyday Catholics from his time so it was relatively straightforward. (Either that or Gus George Christo did a really good job translating this text from its original language and adding footnotes.) The biggest take away for me is our need for repentance and how God loves and appreciates his followers who see the error in their ways and come to him for repentance. I would imagine that after reading this most people, me included, will want to get to Confession soon. You don't want to pass from this life with any stains tarnishing your soul.

[Ashraf Bashir · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like how St. John simply relates the repentance with almsgiving, giving a new perspective for giving as being a reward which a man gives to himself ! As transmitting his non-own to his own ! Contrary to the common understanding of giving which is understood as losing what we have, the new perspective is that:
WHEN WE GIVE, IN FACT WE GET WHAT WE HAVEN'T !
& WHEN WE GET, IN FACT WE LOSE WHAT WE HAVE !
A perfect book that is worth reading ...

[w gall · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Church Father whose words are golden. He sets marriage on a level lower than virginity, as does St. Paul in 1 Corinthians 7, but as a life with just as many struggles, which will adorn our crowns as we press on through them. He has a high view of marriage, and also gives helpful advice to enhance the relationship.

[Ted · Rating 3 out of 5]

Reading Chrysostom for me is like panning for gold - it takes a lot of time but you do find some valuable nuggets.

[K. P. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good book to read during Lent

[Avram Wahba · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book with some very nice points but was definitely a slow, tough read for me.