St. Ambrose of Milan
(C. 333 – 397 AD)
Historical Note
St. Ambrose was born in Treves, the son of the Pretorian Prefect of Gaul,
probably in 333 AD. His father, whose name was also Ambrose, died
relatively early in life. The young Ambrose was then taken by his mother
(together with his brother and sister) to Rome to receive a Christian
education.
Ambrose was trained in rhetoric and law and in 370 AD was made Consul
of Liguria and Emilia, with his residence in Milan. At the death of the
bishop of Milan, the Arian Auxentius, there ensued much tension and
violence between the Catholic and Arian factions. St. Ambrose, who at the
time was not even baptized, became involved in the disputes. During one
of the clashes, while voices were being raised proffering different
candidates for the episcopal succession, a young child began to cry out
repeatedly the name of Ambrose. Immediately, the multitude, both
Catholics and Arians alike, began to also call out Ambrose’s name. Despite
attempting to flee, St. Ambrose eventually yielded to public pressure and
within the space of just seven days he received the sacraments of Baptism,
Confirmation, Holy Communion and Holy Orders (December 7, 374).
From this moment onwards, St. Ambrose devoted his life to the study of
the sacred sciences, the administration of his church, the care of his flock,
the interests of the Empire, and the personal concerns of its rulers, namely
Gratian, Valentinian II and Theodosius. St. Ambrose as bishop was
exemplary both in his public and private life. As a theologian, he was
solely influenced by the great Fathers of the East. His strength lies in his
moral and ascetical writings, which remain of great importance even today
in the field of pastoral theology. He is also remembered as the author of
many hymns, some of which are still recited in the Divine Office, and his
name is given to the style of plainsong, Ambrosian Chant, in the liturgy of
the Milanese Rite.
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