Memorial of Saint John Chrysostom

Abstract

David was a seminarian. During his theological studies, David learned—as most of us do here at Hekima—several subjects, acquired various skills, prepared earnestly for his forthcoming ordination to the priesthood. The day did arrive, and he was ordained. His first assignment was to a parish, with two substations/missions. His first Sunday mass was scheduled to be in one of those missions. The diligent David sat down, read the Sunday readings slowly and prayerfully, pulled out the books he brought with him and, after a prolonged preparation, he composed a homily, which would easily last 30 minutes. Satisfied, he printed it out and was all eager for the Sunday. The day did come! David arrived at this mission 30 minutes ahead the mass. The mission was on a hilltop, further it was winter season. The church closed, although there was a dim light inside. He went into the church and saw the church was nearly empty, but for one parishner, sitting at the far end of a pew. Perhaps, I am too early, he thought to himself and waited. 10 minutes passed, 20 minutes, 25 minutes… no sign of any more parishners.