Synaxarium

On this day, we celebrate the commemoration of Saint John the Evangelist and his annunciation in Asia Minor, the city of Ephesus, and the surrounding regions, as well as the consecration of a church in his name in the city of Alexandria. He endured many horrors and suffered at the hands of the evil idol-worshippers until he restored them to the knowledge of God and saved them from the tyranny of Satan through his teachings and the signs God performed through him. Then he wrote his Gospel, proclaiming the eternality of the Son and His incarnation. Afterwards, he ascended in the Spirit to heaven, saw the heavenly hosts and their ranks, heard their praises, and wrote the Book of Revelation.

This occurred during the days of Emperor Domitian—when he was exiled—after being placed in a cauldron of boiling oil which did not harm him. While in exile on the island of Patmos, he wrote this book.

After Domitian was killed in the year 96 AD, John returned to Ephesus and noticed the presence of heretics from the Nicolaitans teaching that Christ was born naturally of Joseph and Mary. He wrote his Gospel in response to their slanders. He was zealous for the guidance of sinners; he guided a young man and entrusted him to the bishop, saying, "Keep this deposit with you." But the young man behaved badly, corrupted by bad company, and became a chief of thieves. When he returned, he asked the bishop about the deposit. The bishop expressed sorrow for his condition. The saint prepared a horse, took a guide, and traveled to his location. When the thieves captured him and brought him before their leader, upon recognizing the apostle, the young man was ashamed and fled. John said to him, "My son, have mercy on yourself; the door of hope remains open for your salvation, and I am your guarantor before the Lord Jesus." Tears fell from his eyes, he returned repentant, and was brought to partake of the Holy Mysteries to strengthen him.

His life is recorded on the 4th of Toba. This feast was arranged to commemorate his annunciation and because on this day a church was consecrated in his name in the city of Alexandria. May his prayers be with us. And to our Lord be glory forever. Amen.