Saint Ambrose

Born: 339 AD, Trier, Germany

Died: April 4, 397, Milan, Italy

Venerated in: Roman Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox Churches, Oriental Orthodoxy, Anglican Communion, Lutheran Church

Major Shrine: Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio, Milan

Feast Day: December 7

Attributes: Beehive, a child, whip, bones

Patronage: Beekeepers, bees, candle makers, domestic animals, French Commissariat, learning, Milan, Italy, students, wax refiners

Aurelius Ambrosius, more commonly known as Saint Ambrose, was born around 340 AD in Trier, a city in modern-day Germany. He hailed from a noble Roman family. His father, Ambrosius, was the Praetorian Prefect of Gaul, while his mother was a woman of intellect and piety. Ambrose had two siblings, Marcellina and Satyrus, both of whom also led religious lives.

Education and Early Career

Ambrose received an extensive education in literature, law, and rhetoric, which was typical for young men of his social class. He studied in Rome and was well-versed in Greek, which later influenced his theological works. After his education, Ambrose embarked on a career in the Roman administration, initially serving as a legal advocate. His competence and integrity quickly led to his appointment as the governor of Liguria and Emilia, with his headquarters in Milan.

Appointment as Bishop of Milan

In 374 AD, the Bishop of Milan, Auxentius, passed away, leading to a contentious debate over his successor. Ambrose, who was then governor, intervened to maintain order. During his speech, a voice from the crowd, reportedly that of a child, exclaimed, "Ambrose for bishop!" Despite his initial reluctance and his lack of baptism (he was still a catechumen), Ambrose was unanimously elected as the bishop by the people. Within a week, he was baptized, ordained, and consecrated as bishop.

Ecclesiastical Contributions

Theological Works

As Bishop of Milan, Ambrose became a key figure in the Christian Church. He wrote extensively on theology, with notable works including "De Fide" (On Faith), "De Spiritu Sancto" (On the Holy Spirit), and "Exameron," a commentary on the six days of creation. His writings combated Arianism, a prevalent heresy of the time, and affirmed the doctrine of the Trinity.

Hymnography

Ambrose is credited with introducing antiphonal chanting to Western Christianity and composed numerous hymns. His hymns were designed to teach the faith and provide a robust form of worship. The "Ambrosian Hymns," as they came to be known, had a lasting influence on Christian liturgical music.

Political Influence

Ambrose's influence extended beyond the Church into the political sphere. He was a staunch advocate for the separation of church and state but did not hesitate to wield his influence when necessary. His confrontations with Emperors Gratian, Valentinian II, and Theodosius I were notable. In particular, his excommunication of Theodosius after the massacre in Thessalonica in 390 AD demonstrated his commitment to moral integrity and the authority of the Church.

Legacy and Death

Ambrose passed away on April 4, 397 AD. He was buried in the Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio in Milan, which he had commissioned. His legacy as a theologian, hymnographer, and church leader remains influential in both Western and Eastern Christian traditions. Ambrose was later canonized, and his feast day is celebrated on December 7, the anniversary of his consecration as bishop.

In conclusion, Aurelius Ambrosius, or Saint Ambrose, stands as a towering figure in early Christian history. His contributions to theology, liturgy, and the relationship between church and state continue to resonate through the centuries.

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