Senator of Milan

Senator of Milan, also known as Senator of Settala, was a significant ecclesiastical figure who served as the Bishop of Milan from 472 to 475. He is honored as a saint in both the Eastern Orthodox Church and the Catholic Church, with his feast day observed on May 28.

Life and Historical Context

The primary historical source for Senator's life is the writings of Ennodius, the bishop of Pavia in the early 6th century. Ennodius described Senator as a man of considerable eloquence and wit, attributing commentaries to the Prophets to him.

Senator was born in Settala, a location approximately 15 kilometers east of Milan. His early ecclesiastical career was closely tied to his spiritual mentor, Saint Abundius, the bishop of Como. In the summer of 450, Senator, then a priest, was part of a delegation led by Abundius that conveyed letters from Pope Leo the Great to Constantinople. These letters, dated June 17, 450, were addressed to Emperor Theodosius II, Empress Pulcheria, and Patriarch Anatolius of Constantinople. Their purpose was to denounce the support given to the doctrines of Eutyches, which were deemed heretical.

Upon returning to Rome before June 451, Abundius and Senator proceeded to Milan with papal letters for Bishop Eusebius of Milan. In September 451, both Abundius and Senator attended a local synod in Milan, which included 18 bishops from across northern Italy. During this synod, they recounted their experiences from their journey to the East. The following month, the doctrines of Eutyches were formally condemned by the Council of Chalcedon.

Ministry and Legacy

Senator became the bishop of Milan in 472. During his tenure, he was actively involved in both the spiritual and material welfare of the diocese. In 472, Senator founded the Basilica of Saint Euphemia in Milan. He dedicated this basilica to the martyr Euphemia, and it is now dedicated to both Saint Euphemia and Senator himself. Saint Euphemia's connection to the condemnation of Eutychian doctrine is noteworthy, as the Council of Chalcedon convened in a church dedicated to her, and a miracle attributed to her is said to have influenced the condemnation.

Senator died on May 29, 475, and was buried in the basilica he had founded. His feast day is celebrated in the Catholic Church on May 28, as May 29 was already designated for another saint's commemoration. Senator is venerated as a confessor, a testament to his faithful witness and service to the Church.