====== St. Ambrose ======

**Ambrose of Milan** (c. 340 – April 4, 397), also known as St. Ambrose, was a bishop of Milan and one of the most influential ecclesiastical figures of the 4th century. He played a crucial role in the development of the early Church, notably through his teachings on Christian doctrine, his opposition to Arianism, and his influence on the formation of the Western Church. He is recognized as a Doctor of the Church and is venerated as a saint in both the Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church.

===== Early Life and Background =====

Ambrose was born in Trier, in the Roman province of Gallia Belgica, around 340. He came from a prominent Christian family; his father was a Roman official. Following his education in law and rhetoric, Ambrose became an official in the Roman administration, eventually serving as the governor of Aemilia-Liguria, based in Milan.

===== Election as Bishop =====

In 374, the bishop of Milan, Auxentius, died, leading to a contentious election for his successor. Ambrose, who was not yet a baptized Christian at the time, played a mediating role in the election. According to tradition, when he spoke to calm the crowd, his eloquence and charisma impressed those present, leading to his election as bishop. Ambrose was baptized, ordained, and consecrated as bishop in a remarkably short period of time.

===== Episcopal Ministry =====

==== Opposition to Arianism ====

Ambrose became a staunch opponent of Arianism, a theological doctrine that denied the full divinity of Jesus Christ, asserting that Christ was a created being rather than coeternal with God the Father. His defense of Nicene orthodoxy made him a key figure in the struggle against Arianism in the Western Church. He played a pivotal role in the Council of Aquileia in 381, which condemned Arianism and affirmed the Nicene Creed.

==== Theological Contributions ====

Ambrose was an influential theologian and is credited with developing the early Christian understanding of various doctrines, including the Incarnation and the Trinity. His writings often emphasized the importance of the sacraments and the authority of the Church.

===== Influence on the Liturgy and Music =====

Ambrose is also known for his contributions to the liturgy and the development of Ambrosian chant, a form of early Christian music. He introduced hymns into the worship services, marking a significant shift in Christian liturgy by making singing a central part of communal worship. This practice influenced the later development of liturgical music in both the Roman Catholic Church and other Christian traditions.

===== Notable Events =====

==== The Theodosian Controversy ====

In 390, Ambrose famously confronted Emperor Theodosius I after the emperor ordered the massacre of the people of Thessalonica in response to a riot. Ambrose refused to allow Theodosius to enter the church until he had performed public penance for his actions. This episode exemplified the power and authority of bishops in the late Roman Empire, asserting the Church’s moral authority over secular rulers.

==== Protection of Church Property ====

Ambrose was also known for his fierce defense of Church property against the encroachments of the state. His insistence on the independence of the Church from secular authority contributed to the evolving relationship between the Church and the Roman government.

==== Patronage ====

Saint Ambrose is the patron saint of:

  * Milan
  * Beekeepers
  * Learning and students
  * Liturgists

===== Writings =====

St. Ambrose was a prolific writer. His major works include:

  * **On the Duties of the Clergy (De Officiis Ministrorum)**: A treatise on the responsibilities and ethics of clergy.
  *** On the Sacraments (De Sacramentis)**: A work discussing the nature and significance of the sacraments.
  * **Exameron**: A commentary on the creation narrative in Genesis.
  * **Concerning the Mysteries (De Mysteriis)**: A catechetical work explaining the sacraments to newly baptized Christians.
===== Death and Legacy =====

St. Ambrose died on April 4, 397, in Milan. His death was widely mourned, and he was buried in the basilica he had constructed. He was later declared a saint, and his feast day is celebrated on December 7 in the Western Church.

Ambrose's legacy is profound; he is remembered for his contributions to Christian theology, his commitment to Church independence, and his influence on liturgical practices. His life and work established him as one of the key figures in the early Church, and he is recognized as a Doctor of the Church for his theological insights and teachings.

===== Canonization and Veneration =====

St. Ambrose is venerated as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox Church, and the Anglican Communion. His writings and teachings continue to influence Christian thought and practice today.

===== Major Works =====

  * On the Duties of the Clergy (De Officiis Ministrorum)
  * On the Sacraments (De Sacramentis)
  * Exameron
  * Concerning the Mysteries (De Mysteriis)