[3] John built a reputation for leadership and sanctity, which led the archbishop of Sebaste to consecrate him bishop of Colonia in Armenia.

[4] His biographer says that while John was praying one night, he saw a bright cross form in the air and heard a voice say to him, "If thou desirest to be saved, follow this light."

They travelled to Calvary for the ordination but upon their arrival John requested a private audience with the patriarch.

"Father, I have been ordained bishop; but on account of the multitude of my sins have fled, and am come into this desert to wait the visit of the Lord."

The patriarch was startled but told St. Sabas, "I desire to be excused from ordaining this man, on account of some particulars he has revealed to me.

"[3] St. Sabas was afraid John had committed a crime and after he prayed God revealed the truth to him.

St. John moved to a nearby wilderness where he spent six years in silence, conversing only with God and eating only wild roots and herbs.

While there, John appeared to him in a dream and after scolding him for not obeying said that if he returned to St. Euthymius' monastery, he would get well and find his salvation.