That Which Is Good

Saint Ambrose, known as Aurelius Ambrosius, was born around the year 340 in the region of Trier, Germany, into a Roman Christian family of high standing. His father was a prefect of Gaul, a significant imperial post, which provided Ambrose with a well-rounded education and notable connections from a young age. Upon his father's passing, the family relocated to Rome, where Ambrose pursued further studies in law and rhetoric. His abilities soon caught the attention of the Roman authorities, and before reaching the age of 40, he found himself appointed as the Governor of Liguria and Emilia with residence in Milan.

In Milan, a crucial turning point awaited Ambrose. The year 374 marked his unexpected election as Bishop of Milan, despite his status as a catechumen, one not yet baptized into the faith. His deep sense of duty compelled him to accept the responsibility, leading him to get baptized and thereafter ordained. As Bishop, Ambrose became a staunch defender of Nicene Christianity against Arianism and worked tirelessly to promote orthodoxy and moral integrity within the ecclesiastical and secular realms. His ecclesiastical career was marked by fervent pastoral care, eloquent preaching, and a dedication to the moral life of his flock.

Saint Ambrose's righteous example and eloquence were influential far beyond his diocese. One of the most notable instances of his enduring impact was upon Saint Augustine of Hippo, who was moved towards Christian conversion partly due to the virtuous life and teachings of Ambrose. Cardinal Newman recounts this transformative interaction in his "Historical Sketches," shedding light on the depth of Ambrose's influence. Through his gentle yet firm guidance, Ambrose not only led individuals like Augustine toward a deeper understanding of Christian faith but also left a lasting imprint on the theological and ecclesiastical landscape of his time.