Saint Peter Chrysologus (c. 380–450) was bishop of Ravenna, Italy, during the fifth century, when the city was the capital of the Western Roman Empire. He was called 'Chrysologus,' meaning 'golden-worded,' for his brief, clear, and heartfelt homilies, more than a hundred of which survive. In 1729 he was declared a Doctor of the Church.
Peter kept his sermons short on purpose, saying he would rather his people stay attentive than be worn out by many words — a gentle reminder that love speaks simply. He preached that if we want God to hear our prayers, we must first listen to the poor and to one another. His example teaches us that a few kind, true words, spoken from the heart, can carry great grace.
Saint Peter Chrysologus, teacher of golden words, help us to speak simply and lovingly, and to hear God's voice in the quiet of our hearts. Amen.