Ambrose of Milan
Ambrose of Milan was a theologian and statesman who served as Bishop of Milan from 374 to 397. He is remembered for his firm stance against Arianism, his influential writings, and his role in mediating imperial conflicts. Ambrose is recognized as one of the four Great Latin Church Fathers and a Doctor of the Church.
- Century
- 4th century
- Country Or Region
- Italy
Key Facts
- ›Born into a Roman Christian family of Greek descent in 339.
- ›Unexpectedly made Bishop of Milan in 374 by popular acclamation.
- ›Took a firm position against Arianism and influenced theological debates.
- ›Authored significant writings, including "De officiis ministrorum" and "Exameron".
- ›Helped convert Augustine of Hippo to Christianity.
- ›Venerated as a saint by Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, Anglican, and Lutheran denominations.
Aurelius Ambrosius
Bees, Beehives
About Ambrose of Milan
Ambrose of Milan (Latin: Aurelius Ambrosius; c. 339 – 4 April 397), canonized as Saint Ambrose, was a significant theologian and statesman who served as the Bishop of Milan from 374 to 397. His life and work left a profound mark on the 4th century, influencing both religious doctrine and political affairs.
Life and Historical Context
Born into a Roman Christian family of Greek descent in Augusta Treverorum (modern Trier), Ambrose's early life was marked by study in literature, law, and rhetoric. He entered public service, eventually becoming governor of the province of Liguria and Emilia with headquarters in Milan. In 374, following the death of the Arian bishop Auxentius, Ambrose was unexpectedly acclaimed bishop by popular demand while attempting to prevent an uproar. Despite being a relatively new Christian, he was baptized, ordained, and consecrated within a week, becoming a prominent member of the upper class to hold such an office in the West.
Ministry and Theology
As bishop, Ambrose adopted an ascetic lifestyle, distributing his wealth to the poor. He was a staunch opponent of Arianism, a Christological doctrine that differed from orthodox Nicene Christianity. Ambrose actively sought to refute Arian propositions theologically and played a crucial role in ecclesiastical councils, such as the Synod of Aquileia in 381, where he presided and led to the deposition of Arian bishops. His preaching and writings, including "De officiis ministrorum" and "Exameron," were highly influential.
Imperial Relations
Ambrose engaged significantly with Roman emperors Gratian, Valentinian II, and Theodosius I. While scholarly views on the extent of his direct influence vary, he was known to speak out on matters of faith and morality. He famously refused to surrender churches to the Arians, asserting that "What belongs to God, is outside the emperor's power." He also undertook diplomatic missions, notably dissuading Magnus Maximus from invading Italy. Following the Massacre of Thessalonica in 390, Ambrose famously demanded a public act of penance from Emperor Theodosius I, withholding communion until it was performed.
Legacy
Ambrose's literary works and his firm theological and moral stance made him a key figure in the development of Western Christianity. He is credited with authorship of several hymns, including "Veni redemptor gentium," which form the basis of Ambrosian hymns. His influence extended to Augustine of Hippo, whom he helped convert to Christianity. Ambrose is recognized as one of the four Great Latin Church Fathers and was declared a Doctor of the Church. He is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox Church, Anglican Communion, and various Lutheran denominations, and is the patron saint of Milan and beekeepers.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Ambrose of Milan born and when did he die?
Ambrose of Milan was born around 339 and died on April 4, 397. He served as Bishop of Milan for over two decades.
How did Ambrose become Bishop of Milan?
Ambrose was serving as the Roman governor of Aemilia-Liguria in Milan when he was unexpectedly made Bishop of Milan in 374 by popular acclamation. He initially refused but was eventually baptized, ordained, and consecrated.
What was Ambrose's stance on Arianism?
As bishop, Ambrose took a firm position against Arianism, a Christological doctrine that differed from the Nicene Creed. He actively sought to refute Arian propositions and presided over councils that deposed Arian bishops.
What are some of Ambrose's most well-known writings?
Ambrose left a substantial collection of writings. His best-known works include the ethical commentary "De officiis ministrorum" and the exegetical "Exameron".
What is Ambrose remembered for in relation to Augustine of Hippo?
Ambrose had a notable influence on Augustine of Hippo. He helped convert Augustine to Christianity through his preaching and theological instruction.
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