Doctors of the Church: St. Jerome

St. Jerome devoted himself to producing an authoritative edition of the Bible. His translation is referred to as the Vulgate.

He regarded the Word of God as a treasure.

Corresponding with a noble woman regarding the education of her daughter, he wrote “Instead of jewels and silk clothing, may she love the divine Books"

For St. Jerome the Word of God was not merely to be read, but also to be lived.

He recognized God in the poor. His words attesting to this are similar to those of St. Teresa of Calcutta.

In another letter with regard to wealth, he advised that it be used to “clothe Christ in the poor, to visit Him in the sick, to feed Him in the hungry, to shelter Him in the homeless.”

When the Goths invaded Rome, St. Jerome turned from writing biblical commentary to helping refugees who came to Bethlehem where he was then living. "I cannot help them all, but I grieve and weep with them, and am completely absorbed in the duties that charity imposes on me," he wrote. "I have put aside my commentary on Ezekiel and almost all study. For today we must translate the precepts of the Scriptures into deeds. Instead of speaking saintly words, we must act them."

St. Jerome's translation of the Bible has had an enduring impact in conveying God's truth.

In considering how you might influence others, you might ponder:

• How can my work lead others to God?
• How can I show love for others by what I do and say?

And besides what you can do individually, do you ever wonder:

• If there's a possibility of bringing the Good News to the nightly news, how would you do so?
• Though we cannot eradicate all problems what help can we provide?
• How can we join our efforts with those of others so that together we can do more?

For information about the archdiocesan anti-violence Initiatives - Watch the April 4th press conference here and read information here

Please visit these links to read more about St. Jerome:life & work and thought

To listen to a podcast, about St. Jerome please click here.

By Laura Ross

Faith Formation Commission

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