St. Ambrose
The Defender of Orthodoxy
"No one heals himself by wounding another."
Saint Facts
- Origin:
- Italy
- Gender:
- Male
- Vocation:
- Priest
- Birth:
- 340
- Feast Day:
- Dec 7
- Death:
- 397
Saint Details
St. Ambrose was born around 340 AD in Augusta Treverorum, Belgica, Gaul (now Trier, Germany), to a Roman Christian family. He was educated in Rome, where he studied law, literature, and rhetoric, eventually becoming a Roman provincial governor. In 374, Ambrose was unexpectedly elected Bishop of Milan, despite being unbaptized at the time. He was baptized, ordained, and consecrated bishop on December 7, 374. As bishop, Ambrose became a powerful figure, donating his wealth to the poor and advocating for the Church's independence from state interference.
Ambrose played a significant role in shaping early Christian thought, particularly through his opposition to Arianism and his influence on St. Augustine of Hippo, whom he baptized in 387. He was a prolific writer, producing works such as *On the Holy Spirit* and *On the Duties of Ministers*. His sermons and hymns, including the famous *Te Deum*, remain influential in Christian liturgy. Ambrose's confrontation with Emperor Theodosius I over the massacre at Thessalonica exemplified his courage in defending Christian principles. He passed away on Good Friday in 397 and was canonized in 1298. Today, Ambrose is celebrated as a patron saint of beekeepers, learners, and Milan, with his feast day observed on December 7. His legacy continues to inspire through his theological writings and his role in shaping medieval church-state relations.
Associated Holy Sites
Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio
Piazza Sant'Ambrogio, 15, 20123 Milano MI, Italy
Details for: Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio
The Basilica of SantAmbrogio is a significant Catholic pilgrimage site located in Milan, Italy. Constructed in 379-386 AD, the basilica is named after Saint Ambrose, one of the four original Doctors of the Church, who is also the patron saint of Milan. The basilica has served as a beacon of Catholic faith and learning for over 1,600 years. It houses the relics of Saint Ambrose, Saint Gervasius, and Saint Protasius, attracting thousands of pilgrims every year who come to venerate these saints. The basilicas architectural style, known as Lombard Romanesque, signifies the transition from the late antiquity to the medieval period, making it a significant site not only for religious reasons but also for historical and architectural ones. The golden altar, known as the Pala dOro, is a masterpiece of Carolingian goldsmiths work, adding to the basilicas aesthetic appeal. Overall, the Basilica of SantAmbrogio is a site of deep religious significance and historical interest for Catholic pilgrims and scholars alike.
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