SAINT AMBROSE, BISHOP OF MILAN AND DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH

 

Image of Saint Ambrose, Bishop of Milan and Doctor of the Church
Saint Ambrose, Bishop of Milan and Doctor of the Church

By Edward Matulanya 

Explore the life, teachings, and legacy of Saint Ambrose, Bishop of Milan and Doctor of the Church, with inspiring examples of his faith. His feast day celebrated by the Catholic Church on December 7.

1. Biography of Saint Ambrose; Who Was Saint Ambrose?

Saint Ambrose ( 340–397 AD) was a pivotal figure in early Christianity. Known for his wisdom, leadership, and devotion, he shaped the doctrines of the Roman Catholic Church. His exemplary life earned him the title Doctor of the Church, highlighting his spiritual and theological authority (McLynn, 1994). For example, Ambrose is remembered for his courage in standing up for the Church, even when facing powerful emperors (Thomas, 2006).

2. Early Life of Saint Ambrose

Born into a Roman Christian family in Trier (modern-day Germany), Ambrose received an elite education in law and rhetoric. His early exposure to Christian teachings influenced his moral and spiritual development (McLynn, 1994). For example, Ambrose’s legal training helped him skillfully negotiate Church independence from imperial pressures later as bishop (Thomas, 2006).

3. Ambrose’s Path to Bishop of Milan

In 374 AD, Ambrose was unexpectedly chosen as Bishop of Milan. Although he was not yet baptized, the citizens insisted due to his reputation for fairness and piety. Ambrose accepted, demonstrating humility and devotion (McLynn, 1994). For example, Ambrose’s election shows how a person’s character and virtue can inspire people, even before official recognition.

4. Contributions of Saint Ambrose to the Roman Catholic Church

Ambrose made lasting contributions to the Church  by defending Church authority against secular interference (Thomas, 2006). Also, converted influential figures, including Saint Augustine of Hippo. Further more, introduced hymn singing in Western liturgy and strengthened Christian ethical and moral teachings. For example, Ambrose confronted Emperor Theodosius I after the massacre at Thessalonica, forcing the emperor to do public penance—a powerful example of moral courage (McLynn, 1994).

5. Saint Ambrose as a Doctor of the Church

Named a Doctor of the Church, Ambrose’s writings and sermons shaped Catholic theology. His teachings on faith, morality, and the sacraments influenced generations of clergy and scholars (Thomas, 2006). For example, his treatise De Officiis Ministrorum (On the Duties of the Clergy) is still studied today for its guidance on pastoral leadership (McLynn, 1994).

6. Major Writings and Teachings of Saint Ambrose

Some notable works include.

I. Letters; persuaded emperors and guided local clergy.

Ii. Sermons; taught moral and spiritual lessons to ordinary people.

III. Hymns; introduced congregational hymn singing to the Western Church.

IV. Theological Treatises; explored the Trinity, sacraments, and Christian living (Thomas, 2006).

For example, his hymn Te Deum is still sung in Catholic liturgy worldwide, demonstrating his lasting influence (McLynn, 1994).

7. Saint Ambrose and His Role in Early Christianity

Ambrose defended the Church against heresies and imperial control. He guided the Christian community and mentored future saints, ensuring the Church’s teachings endured (Thomas, 2006). For example, Ambrose baptized Saint Augustine of Hippo, one of Christianity’s greatest theologians, showing how mentorship can transform lives (McLynn, 1994).

8. Feast Day of Saint Ambrose

The Catholic Church celebrates Saint Ambrose’s feast day on December 7. Special prayers, masses, and readings commemorate his dedication to faith and leadership (Catholic News Agency, 2023). For example, In Milan, the Ambrosian Rite includes unique hymns and rituals reflecting his influence on local liturgy (Thomas, 2006).

9. Saint Ambrose’s Legacy Today

Saint Ambrose’s teachings and actions continue to inspire Catholics worldwide. His writings, moral courage, and dedication to truth remain central to Catholic theology and practice (McLynn, 1994). For example, Many modern clergy study Ambrose’s letters for guidance on standing firm in faith while engaging with society and political authorities (Thomas, 2006).

10. Quotes and Wisdom from Saint Ambrose

Some of his most famous reflections include.

“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere” (McLynn, 1994).

“He who is humble is exalted by God” (Thomas, 2006).

“Faith without works is dead; charity is the fulfillment of faith” (Catholic News Agency, 2023). For example, Ambrose’s insistence on humility and charity can inspire everyday acts of kindness, such as helping the poor or standing up for justice.

11. Miracles of Saint Ambrose, Bishop of Milan and Doctor of the Church

Saint Ambrose ( 340–397 AD), one of the four great Latin Doctors of the Church, is associated with several miracles preserved in Roman Catholic tradition. These stories appear in early Christian writings, hagiography, and later historical accounts. The following examples summarize key Miracles.

I. The Beehive Miracle (Infancy of Ambrose)

One of the earliest traditions states that when Ambrose was a baby, a swarm of bees settled on his face as he slept. The bees did not harm him; instead, they moved in and out of his mouth before flying away (Butler, 1956). Early Christians believed this symbolized that Ambrose would become a gifted preacher whose words were “sweet as honey.”

II. The Discovery of the Relics of Saints Gervasius and Protasius

In 386 AD, Ambrose divine prompted to unearth the relics of two forgotten martyrs beneath a Milanese basilica (Ambrose, Letter 22, as cited in Ramsey, 1997). A man named Severus, who was blind, reportedly regained his sight after touching the relics (Butler, 1956; McLynn, 1994). Roman Catholics see this as a miraculous confirmation of the martyrs’ holiness and Ambrose’s spiritual authority.

III. The Miracle of the Emperor Theodosius’ Repentance

After Emperor Theodosius ordered the massacre of thousands in Thessalonica, Ambrose refused him Communion until he performed sincere public penance. Despite being the most powerful ruler in the Roman world, Theodosius complied (Brown, 2012). While not a physical miracle, Christian tradition views this as a spiritual miracle; Ambrose inspired conversion and humility in an emperor.

IV. The Attempted Burning of the Basilica

During conflict with Arian groups, opponents attempted to burn one of Ambrose’s basilicas. According to Christian sources, the flames would not ignite the building despite efforts to set it on fire (Butler, 1956). This was seen as divine protection over Ambrose and the Church.

V. The “Miracle” of Ambrosian Hymns

Ambrose introduced antiphonal (call-and-response) singing into Western liturgy during a time of tension with Arian forces. His hymns reportedly brought peace, courage, and unity to the people under siege (McLynn, 1994). Catholics consider this a miracle of spiritual consolation and liturgical inspiration 

rather than a supernatural physical event.

12. Patronage of Saint Ambrose, Bishop of Milan and Doctor of the Church.

Saint Ambrose (340–397 AD), an early Church Father and one of the four great Latin Doctors of the Church, is known for several patronages recognized in Roman Catholic tradition. These patronages come from stories about his life, his writings, and his symbolic role in Christian history.

I. Patron Saint of Beekeepers and Bees

Ambrose’s connection to bees comes from the well-known story that a swarm of bees settled on his face when he was an infant and flew harmlessly in and out of his mouth (Butler, 1956). Early Christians saw this as a sign that he would become a gifted speaker. For example, a beekeeper might ask for Saint Ambrose’s intercession to protect bee colonies. Also, paintings of Ambrose often show a beehive or bees as symbolic of holy wisdom.

II. Patron Saint of Teachers, Students, and Learning

Ambrose was highly educated in Roman law, Greek philosophy, and rhetoric. His writings influenced Saint Augustine and shaped Western theology (McLynn, 1994). For these reasons, he is considered a patron of learning. For example, Catholic schools named after Ambrose highlight academic excellence and moral teaching. Also, students might pray for guidance during exams.

III. Patron Saint of Milan

Ambrose served as Bishop of Milan during a critical period in the Church's history. His leadership during the Arian controversy and his influence on Emperor Theodosius cemented his role as Milan’s protector and spiritual father (Brown, 2012). For example, Milan celebrates the Feast of Saint Ambrose (December 7) as a major cultural event. Also, the Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio remains one of the city’s most important holy sites.

IV. Patron Saint of Candle Makers

Ambrose is symbolically associated with light, both spiritually and liturgically. Medieval tradition links him to candle makers because of his promotion of liturgical worship and his role as a "light of the Church" (Butler, 1956). For example, candle guilds in medieval Europe honored Ambrose as their heavenly patron

V. Patron Against Skin Ailments

Some regional Catholic traditions connect Ambrose with healing skin irritations or beestings. This comes from symbolic association with beeswax, which was used in early medicinal treatments (Butler, 1956). For example, Rural Italian communities historically prayed to Ambrose while applying beeswax salves.

VI. Patron of Livestock 

In parts of Europe, Ambrose became associated with animal protection. This connection often comes from agricultural customs tied to his winter feast day. For example, Farmers once brought livestock to churches for blessing ceremonies on Ambrose’s feast day.

VII. Patron Saint of Bishops and Preachers

Ambrose is considered a model bishop because of his strong preaching, moral integrity, and courage in correcting Emperor Theodosius after the massacre at Thessalonica (Brown, 2012). His writings continue to guide clergy today. For example, Many bishop retreats and clergy formation programs study Ambrose’s sermons and letters.

References

Ambrose. (1997). Letter 22. In B. Ramsey (Ed.), Ambrose: Letters 1–91. Fathers of the Church, Vol. 26. Catholic University of America Press. (Original work written c. 386)

Brown, P. (2012). Through the eye of a needle: Wealth, the fall of Rome, and the making of Christianity in the West, 350–550 AD. Princeton University Press.

Butler, A. (1956). Butler’s lives of the saints (Rev. ed., Vol. 4). P. Burns (Ed.). Christian Classics.

Catholic News Agency. (2023). Saint Ambrose. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/saint/ambrose

McLynn, N. (1994). Ambrose of Milan: Church and Court in a Christian Capital. Berkeley: University of California Press.

Thomas, S. (2006). Saints and Their Stories: Saint Ambrose. London: Continuum International Publishing.


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