author
Bishop of Milan Saint Ambrose
d. 397
A powerful voice in the early Church, this fourth-century bishop of Milan helped shape Christian thought, worship, and the relationship between church and empire. His sermons, hymns, and moral courage left a mark far beyond his own lifetime.
1 Audiobook
The Letters of S. Ambrose, Bishop of Milan
by Bishop of Milan Saint Ambrose
About the author
Born in the Roman world in the fourth century, Ambrose began his career in public service and law before being unexpectedly chosen as bishop of Milan in 374. He was still a catechumen at the time, but quickly became one of the most influential Christian leaders of his age.
As bishop, he defended Nicene Christianity, preached with unusual clarity and force, and became known for standing up to imperial power when he believed the Church's moral authority was at stake. He also played an important part in the life of Augustine, who later praised him and was baptized by him in Milan.
Ambrose's legacy comes not only from his leadership but from his writing. He was admired as a master of Latin prose, remembered for theological works and biblical commentary, and closely associated with hymnody and the liturgical tradition that bears his name. He died in 397 and remains one of the great Doctors of the Church.