Today, the Catholic Church honors the memory of Saint Ambrose, the Bishop of Milan remembered for his wisdom, leadership, and his major role in Saint Augustine’s conversion. Born around the year 340, Ambrose was a gifted scholar who worked to bring together the best elements of Greek and Roman culture with the teachings of the Christian faith. Before entering religious life, he was well trained in law, literature, and public speaking, eventually becoming the governor of Liguria and Emilia, based in Milan. Even before he became a Christian, his clear defense of the true faith impressed many.
During his time as governor, the local bishop was Auxentius, a strong speaker who followed the Arian heresy, which denied that Jesus was truly divine. Although the Council of Nicaea had already defended the belief that Christ is God, many church leaders, including the majority of bishops at one point, continued to support Arian ideas. Auxentius was known for pressuring priests in the region to accept Arian creeds.
When Auxentius died, Ambrose was still only preparing for baptism, yet the people of Milan immediately saw him as the best person to lead the Church. With support from Emperor Valentinian II, the citizens insisted that Ambrose become their new bishop. Despite his reluctance, he accepted, and only eight days after his baptism, he was ordained bishop on December 7, 374—the date the Church now celebrates as his feast day.
As bishop, Ambrose proved to be a strong defender of the Catholic faith. He donated all his possessions to the Church and those in need. He studied the writings of Greek theologians, especially Saint Basil, to guide his teaching during a time of uncertainty and division. Like many early Christian thinkers, he used classical philosophy to help explain the faith more clearly. His teachings deeply impressed a young professor named Aurelius Augustinus, whom he later instructed and baptized—Augustinus would one day become Saint Augustine of Hippo.
Ambrose lived a simple and disciplined life, celebrated Mass daily, and wrote numerous theological works. He advised rulers, welcomed those searching for truth, guided the faithful, and supported repentant sinners. His strong reputation helped protect the Church when political leaders sought to advance Arian beliefs. Even when the Empress Justina attempted to remove him and place her own bishops in power, Ambrose firmly resisted.
One of the most powerful examples of his leadership came when he confronted Emperor Theodosius, after the emperor ordered the killing of thousands of citizens in Thessalonica. Ambrose refused to allow Theodosius to receive communion until he repented. The emperor accepted the correction, publicly sought forgiveness, and later formed a respectful relationship with Ambrose.
Saint Ambrose served the Church faithfully for 23 years, transforming a troubled diocese into a strong center of faith. After his death in 397, his writings continued to shape Christian teaching for centuries. The Church honors him as one of the great fathers whose wisdom and example continue to guide bishops and believers today.