GIOVANNI, patriarch of ANTIOCHIA. - D. in 441-42. Educated from childhood in the Christian religion, he acquired extensive knowledge of theology and ecclesiastical legislation. Good by nature, he was inclined to gentleness and moderation. In 428-29 he was elected bishop of Antiochia and soon found himself involved in the affair of Nestorio, whose personal friend he was, receiving from him bitterness and disappointment. Upon learning of the heretic’s condemnation, he wrote him a fine letter in 430, urging him to submit.
In 431 he went to Efeso to take part in the Council that condemned Nestorio and proclaimed the divine motherhood of Maria. But he arrived late and, having learned of Nestorio’s condemnation, adopted a harsh and uncompromising attitude, especially toward s. Cirillo. He then held a conventicle with the bishops who supported him, in which Cirillo was excommunicated; but he in turn was excommunicated by the legitimate Council together with 34 followers. Peace was restored only in 433 with the so-called “edict of union,” on account of which, however, G. had to face the wrath of the bishops and clergy of his jurisdiction, uncompromising supporters of Nestorio. He had further troubles when he was asked to subscribe to the Tomo of Proclo of Costantinopoli and to condemn Teodoro di Mopsuestia; on this occasion, however, he knew how to maneuver skilfully and avert dangerous complications.