St. Christian Demosthenes

St. Gregory of Nazianzus or Gregory Nazianzen is known as the Christian Demosthenes, because his great learning preaching ability (Demosthenes was a Greek statesman and orator). He was born around 325 to St. Gregory Nazianzen the Elder, the Bishop of Nazianzus and his wife, Nonna. He was sent to school in Caesarea, Cappadocia where he became friends with St. Basil; he then studied in Palestine and in Athens before returning home around age thirty. He lived contemplative life with Basil and some companions, until his father pressured him to accept ordination. Gregory overcame his reluctance of this honor and assisted his father in governing the diocese, but at his father’s death he refused to be named bishop. Eventually, he went to Constantinople to combat Arianism with his brilliant preaching and became the bishop. He is known for his elegant explanations of the Council of Nicea. He died in 389 after retiring to Nazianzus. He is a Doctor and Father of the Church.