Wednesday, January 23, 2013

John the Almsgiver ( 550 - 619 )


A married layperson for most of his life, at the age of fifty he was chosen to be the patriarch of Alexandria. He was instrumental in the   founding of hospitals, homes for the sick, the elderly, refugees and travelers. He was the first to regulate weights and measures. A move that brought great relief to the poor. He taxed the clergy and was known for his wisdom in the resolution of disputes. Before his death he summarized his life as having found the churches treasury full and leaving it empty, giving it away to the needy.

adapted from an eclectic almanac for the faithful

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