Catholic Saints St. Gregory of Nazianzus
Jan 2, 2026
Dr. Christopher Mooney, a respected scholar from the Augustine Institute, dives into the life and legacy of St. Gregory of Nazianzus, also known as The Theologian. He highlights Gregory's transformative role in early Christian theology and his influential preaching style. Listeners learn about Gregory's unique personality and his theological insights, especially concerning the humanity of Christ. Mooney emphasizes the importance of pastoral formation through preaching and encourages a deeper engagement with scripture for spiritual growth.
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Storm Conversion And Reluctant Ordination
- Christopher Mooney recounts Gregory's storm conversion on the way to Athens that led him to dedicate his life to Christ.
- He then lived a semi-monastic life, resisted ordination, briefly fled, and later served as bishop before returning to Nazianzus.
Given The Title 'The Theologian'
- Christopher Mooney highlights that Eastern tradition gives Gregory the rare title "The Theologian," placing him with only two others.
- This shows Gregory's towering influence in Eastern theology comparable to John the Apostle and St. Simeon the New Theologian.
East's Answer To Augustine
- Mooney compares Gregory to Augustine as the East's great patristic theologian and stresses his major role defending Trinitarian doctrine.
- Gregory's writings and preaching shaped Eastern theology during the golden age of the fathers.