Peter was born in Italy and was educated by the Bishop of his own city. Even as a young boy, Peter understood that a man is truly great only if he can control his passions and put on the spirit of Christ.
When he grew up, St. Peter was made the Archbishop of Ravenna, and he worked hard to wipe out the paganism still practiced in his diocese.
It is as a preacher that St. Peter became famous. Indeed, “Chrysologus” means “golden word.” Yet his sermons were all short, because he was afraid to tire his hearers. Besides that, these sermons are not especially unusually unusual or beautiful in style. But St. Peter’s message was more valuable than gold, and he preached with such enthusiasm and fire that people listened to him breathlessly.
In his sermons, St. Peter urged everyone to receive Jesus often in Holy Communion, so that the Body of the Lord might be the daily food for their souls.
This good Archbishop also worked for the unity of all the members of the Catholic Church. He tried to prevent heresies and to keep peace.
For his wonderful sermons, so rich in teaching, Pope Benedict XIII made St. Peter a Doctor of the Church.
I will pray for preachers and I will listen to the Sunday sermon with attention.
