30 July - Peter Chrysologus, or Peter of Ravenna, born around 380 in Imola, is a theologian, adviser to Pope Leo I. Above all a pastor, he preached a lot, which earned him the name Chrysologus (Golden Word). He was declared Doctor of the Church by Pope Benedict XIII in 1729.
The date of birth of Pierre de Ravenna is hypothetical, but as his episcopal consecration took place around 424, it seems likely to evoke a birth around 380: at that time the episcopal office was entrusted to men who were generally in their forties. Born near Ravenna (at Imola), the nickname of Chrysologus "with the golden word" was not attributed to Peter until the ninth century, probably to propose to Ravenna an emulator of the famous John Chrysostom, bishop of Constantinople. It was in Imola that he was deacon to Bishop Cornelius.
His early education had been well cared for, as attested by the ease and elegance of his expression, his perfect knowledge of the rules of rhetoric and classical literature. At the beginning of the 5th century, Ravenna was the main city of the Empire, due to the siege of Alaric I and the capture of Rome in 410. The city enjoyed peace and the arts and sciences developed there. Peter's predecessor, Honorius, died in 423. Ravenna is said to have received the title of Christian metropolis in 431, which made Peter Chrysologus a metropolitan or archbishop. Many sermons of him and some letters have been preserved. He played an important role in the Church of the 5th century and has been one of the Doctors of the Church since 1729. Popular piety invoked him against fevers and rabies.
