St. Ambrose was a fourth-century Bishop of Milan, preacher, hymn writer, and Doctor of the Church. Catholics seek his intercession for wise leadership, courage in defending the faith, and a love of Scripture that leads to conversion.
Begin PrayingMore about St. Ambrose
Ambrose was born around 339 and trained for imperial public service. While serving as governor in Milan, he entered a church where Christians were divided over the choice of a new bishop. The crowd unexpectedly called for Ambrose, who was still a catechumen, to become bishop. After receiving Baptism and ordination, he was consecrated in 374 and gave himself to theological study, preaching, care for the poor, and the difficult work of guiding the Church.
Ambrose defended the Church’s freedom from political control and taught the Nicene faith against Arian opposition. His preaching played an important role in the conversion of St. Augustine, whom he baptized in Milan in 387. He also enriched Western worship through hymns and careful explanation of Scripture and the sacraments. This novena asks for his balance of learning, pastoral charity, and moral courage when truth must be spoken without abandoning love.
