30th January: The three Hierarchs

         

 The Three Hierarchs of Christianity are Basil the Great (also known as Basil of Caesarea), Gregory the Theologian (also known as Gregory of Nazianzus) and John Chrysostom. 

Basil was known for his care of the poor. He was born in a wealthy Greek family in Cappadocia, around 330A.D. He was one of ten children, and his parents were very pious.

Gregory of Nazianzus was born near Nazianzus, in southwest Cappadocia by Greek parents who were wealthy land-owners.  Donating most of his inheritance to the needy, he lived an austere existence.

John Chrysostom was born in Antioch, Roman Syria. John's father died soon after his birth and he was raised by his mother.  John had a love of the Greek language and literature. His emphasis was on care for the needy.