St. John Damascene (676-749)
John was a highly educated monk and priest who lived near Jerusalem. He wrote the first real compendium of Christian theology, along with other works defending the faith, Biblical commentaries, poetry, and hymns. A great philosopher and orator, he was the last of the Greek Fathers of the Church.

Reflections from the Saints

The saints must be honored as friends of Christ and children and heirs of God... Let us carefully observe the manner of life of all the apostles, martyrs, ascetics and just men who announced the coming of the Lord. And let us emulate their faith, charity, hope, zeal, life, patience under suffering, and perseverance unto death, so that we may also share their crowns of glory.
– St. John Damascene