Ambrose

Ambrose of Milan (Latin: Aurelius Ambrosius; c. 339 – 4 April 397), canonized as Saint Ambrose, was a Roman theologian, statesman, preacher, and Bishop of Milan from 374 until his death. Trained in rhetoric and law, he served as Roman civil governor of Aemilia-Liguria at Milan before being unexpectedly chosen as bishop by popular acclamation in 374. His preaching, ecclesiastical activity, and writings made him one of the most influential Christian figures of the 4th century.

As bishop, Ambrose became a prominent defender of Christian orthodoxy, particularly against Arianism, while also attempting to mediate the conflict between the emperors Theodosius I and Magnus Maximus. He opposed the execution of Priscillianist heretics and later excommunicated Theodosius following a massacre, maintaining that "an emperor is within the church, not over it." He was also a strong advocate of monasticism and asceticism, and his theological activity helped interpret and transmit Eastern Christian theology to the Latin West.

Ambrose left a substantial body of writings. Among his important works were De Virginibus (377), on the literal and metaphorical significance of virginity and purity; De Sacramentis, which contains the earliest witness to the present Roman Canon of the Mass; and the ethical treatise De officiis ministrorum (377–391), concerned especially with the conduct of the clergy. His exegetical writings include the Exameron (386–390). Ambrose was also the author of at least four hymns, including "Veni redemptor gentium", which form the core of the corpus known as the Ambrosian hymns, alongside other hymns traditionally attributed to him. He exercised a notable influence on Augustine of Hippo, whom he helped convert to Christianity.

In Western Christianity, Ambrose came to be recognized alongside Augustine, Jerome, and Pope Gregory the Great as one of the four Great Latin Church Fathers. He was also one of the four original Western Doctors of the Church, formally declared Doctors in 1298. He is venerated as a saint in the Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox Church, Anglican Communion, and various Lutheran denominations, and is the patron saint of Milan and beekeepers. His feast day is usually observed on 7 December.