Excerpts from Saint John Chrysostom’s “Letter to Olympias”
Written during St John Chrysostom’s harsh exile (circa 404–407 AD), the letter seeks to console Olympias, who was also enduring persecution for her unwavering support of him.
“Do not let your troubles distress you, I beg you. Be assured that even if the whole world were in tumult, you would have nothing to fear while you have God as your protector. He is our refuge and strength, a help in tribulations which have found us exceedingly. Therefore, we will not fear when the earth is troubled, nor when the mountains are moved into the heart of the sea.”
“Consider what a great thing it is to share in Christ’s sufferings. Reflect on the fact that Christ endured such trials for your sake. He was mocked, spat upon, beaten, and ultimately crucified. If we endure lesser sufferings for His sake, shall we not be ashamed to complain?”
“This present life is like a shadow. It passes swiftly away, while the things that await us are eternal. Why do we grieve over things that are transient, instead of rejoicing in the promise of things to come?”
“Remember, nothing happens without God’s will. What He permits to happen, even if it seems grievous to us, is for our salvation. If we accept these trials with faith, they will yield great blessings. For gold is purified by fire, and so too are souls refined by afflictions.”
“Take courage, then, beloved Olympias. The storms will pass, and calm will return. God’s providence watches over us, and He never allows us to suffer more than we can bear. Be steadfast in faith, and remember the crown that awaits you. Our trials here are temporary; the reward is eternal.”
Olympias was a deaconess and a close friend of John Chrysostom. A wealthy widow, she dedicated her resources to helping the Church and supporting the poor. The letter was written during Chrysostom’s harsh exile, around 404–407 AD, and was intended to console Olympias, who was also facing persecution for her loyalty to him. It reflects Chrysostom’s remarkable strength in suffering and his ability to inspire courage and hope in others.
In the letter, Chrysostom encourages Olympias to remain strong in her faith despite her trials, reminding her that suffering for righteousness is both a privilege and a path to spiritual glory. He compares their struggles to a storm, urging her not to fear, as they are on a ship that cannot sink. He reassures her of God’s providence, reminding her that His wisdom and care govern all things, even when His plan is not clear.
Chrysostom points to Christ’s example, recalling how Christ was insulted, mocked, and humiliated. He urges Olympias to imitate Christ’s patience and humility, enduring lesser trials with the same spirit. He also highlights the value of virtue, describing suffering as a refining fire that purifies the soul and makes it more perfect. Finally, he encourages her to focus on the eternal reward that awaits the faithful, rather than the temporary struggles of this world, reminding her that the unseen and eternal are far greater than what is seen and fleeting.
