A letter of St. John Chrysostom to Olympias begins with his recovery from a severe illness. He describes months of weakness and the relief that came with a change of season. We identify this particular letter by its opening, Having risen from the very gates of death. Its account brings bodily vulnerability into a relationship sustained across separation. Chrysostom, Letters to Olympias, letter opening “Having risen from the very gates of death,” NPNF I.9, p. 297
After speaking of his condition, Chrysostom turns to concern for Olympias. He had heard that she too had been dangerously ill, and he rejoices at news of her recovery. His own distress did not make her welfare disappear from his attention. The letter holds the condition of both friends within its words of encouragement. Chrysostom, Letters to Olympias, letter opening “Having risen from the very gates of death,” NPNF I.9, p. 297
He also praises her endurance and describes how news of her courage consoles him in his loneliness. Encouragement moves in both directions. The person writing a letter of comfort can also receive comfort through the fidelity of the person addressed. We can preserve that mutuality without making his elevated praise a rule that faithful people must never feel distress. Chrysostom, Letters to Olympias, letter opening “Having risen from the very gates of death,” NPNF I.9, p. 297
St. Paul speaks of God as the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort. The comfort received from Him can equip Christians to comfort others in affliction. Paul includes both suffering and consolation in the life shared among believers. That scriptural witness helps us read the concern passing between Chrysostom and Olympias. 2 Corinthians 1:3-7
A friend separated from us by distance may need a simple, attentive message. We can ask about their condition, share what is true about our own and give encouragement without inventing cheerful news. The letter’s particular example is sustained concern: Chrysostom remembers Olympias’s suffering and receives hope from her endurance. Their correspondence directs us toward friendship that continues to attend to another person. Chrysostom, Letters to Olympias, letter opening “Having risen from the very gates of death,” NPNF I.9, p. 297
For prayer, use the Lord’s Prayer given by Christ in Matthew 6:9–13.
Sources and edition notes
- Chrysostom, Letters to Olympias. Translated by W.R.W. Stephens. From Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers, First Series, Vol. 9. Edited by Philip Schaff. (Buffalo, NY: Christian Literature Publishing Co., 1889.) Revised and edited for New Advent by Kevin Knight. https://www.newadvent.org/fathers/1916.htm.
Scripture references link to these comparison editions: NKJV. Biblical passages are paraphrased. Biblical language within a patristic quotation follows the identified historical English translation.