About St. Ambrose
St. Ambrose was a 4th-century bishop of Milan who became one of the most influential figures in early Christianity, despite starting his career as an unbaptized Roman governor. His rise to bishop came dramatically when, while trying to keep peace at a contentious episcopal election, the crowd suddenly acclaimed him as bishop, though he was only a catechumen preparing for baptism. He initially fled but eventually accepted, was baptized, and became bishop within a week. Known as a brilliant administrator and theologian, he famously stood up to emperors, including refusing Emperor Theodosius entry to church until he repented of a massacre. He was also instrumental in the conversion of St. Augustine, whom he baptized. As a writer and preacher, he helped develop the allegorical interpretation of Scripture and church music, composing hymns still used today. His symbol is the beehive, stemming from a legend that as an infant, a swarm of bees landed on his face and left behind a drop of honey, seen as a sign of his future eloquence. He is considered one of the four original Doctors of the Church and is the patron saint of beekeepers, candlemakers, and Milan. His feast day is December 7th.
Prayers & Devotions
