St. Ambrose, Bishop (397 AD)
Full Name: St. Ambrose of Milan
Period: 340 – 397 AD (Died: April 04, 397 AD)
Feast Day: December 07 (The day he was consecrated as Bishop)
Place of Birth: Trier (modern-day Germany)
Special Significance: Archbishop of Milan, Doctor of the Church, instrument in the conversion of St. Augustine; patron of beekeepers, students, and candlemakers.
Youth and Miraculous Election as Bishop
Born into a noble Roman aristocratic family, he excelled in law and rhetoric, rising to become the Governor of Northern Italy (Milan).
When the Bishop of Milan died in 374 AD, severe conflict broke out between Catholics and Arians over electing a new bishop.
As Governor Ambrose arrived to restore order, a young child's voice miraculously cried out, "Ambrose, Bishop!".
The crowd accepted this as a divine voice and unanimously chose Ambrose—who was still only a catechumen—as their bishop. Submitting to God's will, he received baptism and was consecrated bishop within a week.
Opposition to Arianism and Rebuking Kings
Upon becoming bishop, he gave his wealth and estates to the poor and the Church, adopting a simple, penitential life.
He fought fervently against Arianism to safeguard Catholic truth.
Fearing no political power, he boldly confronted Empress Justina and Emperor Theodosius I over their wrongful actions.
After Emperor Theodosius ordered a massacre of thousands in Thessalonica, Ambrose barred him from the Holy Mass, forcing him to do public penance to receive absolution.
Conversion of St. Augustine and Sacred Writings
Drawn by his eloquent sermons and deep theological knowledge, the great scholar St. Augustine converted to Christianity and was baptized by Ambrose.
Ambrose played a major role in reforming liturgical hymns and the Latin liturgy.
Dedicating his whole life to the Church and the poor, he passed away peacefully at age 57 on April 4, 397 AD.
Spiritual Lesson
Standing fearlessly for justice and truth without fearing political powers or rulers, and promptly dedicating one's life to God's service when called, is the lesson taught by the life of St. Ambrose.