Saint John the Beloved

John the Young and Beloved
Pope Shenouda explains that Saint John was very young when he followed Christ, which is why icons of the Last Supper show him beside Jesus without a beard—a symbol of his youth and purity. Despite his young age, he was filled with deep divine love and holy zeal. Jesus called him and his brother James, sons of Zebedee, “Sons of Thunder,” because of their fiery spiritual zeal.

🔹 Trained by John the Baptist
Before following Christ, John was a disciple of John the Baptist, a strong and fiery prophet who began his ministry in his youth. From him, Saint John inherited a holy zeal and a courageous spirit for truth and salvation.

🔹 A Pillar of the Church
Saint Paul described John, Peter, and James as “pillars of the Church.” Though young, John was spiritually mature and deeply rooted in faith, becoming one of the strongest supports of the early Christian Church.

🔹 His Special Place with Christ
Jesus often took John among the three closest apostles—Peter, James, and John—who witnessed the Transfiguration on the mountain. John’s deep love earned him the title “the disciple whom Jesus loved.”

🔹 The Power of Youth in the Church
Pope Shenouda emphasizes that the Church needs strong, faithful young people like John—those who serve with strength, energy, and zeal before their vigor fades. Youth are the living flame of the Church, called to serve with faith and wisdom.

🔹 Spiritual Message:
Saint John shows how youth can combine purity, love, and holy zeal, becoming pillars of faith. His example calls every young person to dedicate their strength and energy to loving God and serving His Church faithfully.