397 facts for kids
| Millennium: | 1st millennium |
|---|---|
| Centuries: | 3rd century – 4th century – 5th century |
| Decades: | 360s 370s 380s – 390s – 400s 410s 420s |
| Years: | 394 395 396 – 397 – 398 399 400 |
The year 397 AD was a time of important changes in the early Christian Church. Key leaders and thinkers shaped religious life during this period. This year saw a major appointment in the Eastern Roman Empire and the passing of two very influential saints in the Western Roman Empire.
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Important Events in 397
John Chrysostom Becomes Patriarch
In 397, John Chrysostom became the patriarch of Constantinople. A patriarch is a very high-ranking bishop in the Eastern Christian Church. Think of it like being a chief religious leader for a large area. Constantinople was the capital city of the Eastern Roman Empire. John Chrysostom was known for his powerful speeches. His name "Chrysostom" means "golden-mouthed" because of his amazing speaking skills. He used his sermons to teach about Christian life and to speak out against injustice.
Notable Deaths in 397
The Passing of Saint Ambrose
On April 4, 397, Saint Ambrose passed away. He was a very important figure in the early Christian Church. Saint Ambrose served as the bishop of Milan, a major city in Italy. He is considered one of the great Church Fathers. These were early Christian writers and theologians who helped shape Christian beliefs. Ambrose was known for his strong leadership and his deep understanding of the Bible. He also influenced many people, including Saint Augustine, another famous Church Father.
The Legacy of Saint Martin of Tours
Saint Martin of Tours died on November 11, 397. He was a bishop in Tours, a city in what is now France. Martin is often called an "apostle of Gaul" (an old name for France). This means he played a huge role in spreading Christianity there. He was known for his kindness and for helping the poor. One famous story tells how he cut his cloak in half to share with a freezing beggar. Martin of Tours was a monk and a soldier before becoming a bishop. His life inspired many people to follow Christian teachings.
