During the reign of the Julius the Apostate (the last non-christian Roman emporer 355- 363 AD)  John served in the Roman army and was sent by the emperor to one province to persecute Christians.  Being a Christian, John instead of persecuting his fellow christians, helped them with coins,  food and clothing. He freed those who had been arrested, warned others of dangers threatening them,  and assisted in their flight. St John showed charity not only to Christians, but to all the destitute and  those needing help. He visited with the sick, and he consoled the grieving. He visited and calmed the
 Christians who were already in prison with words of love, sympathy and encouragement. Having l earned about this, Julian demanded that he come to Constantinople, where he was arrested, imprisoned  and tortured.