St. Ambrose, born in the palace of Treves around 340, was the son of the prefect of Gaul. Following his father's death, his mother relocated with Ambrose and his sister to Rome, where he studied Greek and displayed aptitude as an orator and poet. He became the governor of Liguria and Emilia, with headquarters at Milan. After the death of bishop Auxentius, Ambrose was considered the most logical choice to succeed him. Though he felt unworthy, Emperor Valentinian II of the Western Roman Empire and the people of Milan forced him to take up the office. So, eight days after his baptism, on December 7, 374, Ambrose received episcopal consecration, and this date eventually became his liturgical feast. Ambrose began his ministry by donating his wealth to the poor and the Church. He spent time counseling pagan inquirers, public officials, penitent sinners, and confused Catholics, and explained the Church's teachings to the people living in a time of doctrinal confusion. Inspired by the works of Greek theologians such as St. Basil and drawing from pre-Christian philosophy and literature, he made the faith more comprehensible to his audience. This attracted, among others, the young Augustinus, whom Ambrose taught and baptized, and later became the acclaimed St. Augustine of Hippo. When the Western Empress Justina and a group of advisers sought to enforce Arianism, Ambrose refused. Another notable achievement was Emperor Theodosius's repentance after he had massacred 7,000 people in Thessalonica. Ambrose died in 397 after 23 years of heroic service, which turned a diocese in crisis into an exemplary outpost of faith. His writings have remained important points of reference, and he is a doctor of the Church.
Prayer:
O God, who made Bishop Saint Ambrose a teacher of the Catholic faith and a model of apostolic courage, raise up in Your Church men after Your own heart to govern her with courage and wisdom.
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