St. John Damascene

Patron Saint of Pharmacists and Icon Painters

St. John Damascene was a Syrian monk in the 8th century. His written works helped explain many complicated theological concepts. He composed liturgical hymns which are still used by Eastern Christians today. St. John Damascene is a Father of both the Eastern Orthodox Church and the Roman Catholic Church. St. John Damascene is known for his writings on the Assumption of Mary, and is often called the “Doctor of the Assumption.” He is also known for defending the importance of icons in the Church during a controversial time. St. John Damascene built on the work of earlier Church Fathers to also clarify Church teaching on the Trinity.

“We do not change the boundaries marked out by our Fathers. We keep the Tradition we have received. If we begin to lay down the Law of the Church even in the smallest things, the whole edifice will fall to the ground in no short time.” –St. John Damascene