Amvrosiy Milanskiy One of the most remarkable fathers of the church, born (as is supposed) of the prefect of Gaul, in Trier, about 340. Country: Italy

1. Early Life and Career
2. Election as Bishop of Milan
3. Episcopal Ministry
4. Ecclesiastical Writings and Legacy
5. Contributions to Church Music
6. Death and Legacy

Early Life and Career

Ambrose, Saint Ambrose of Milan, was a renowned Father of the Church, born in Trier around 340 AD to a prefect of Gaul. He received his education in Rome and earned the admiration of Emperor Valentinian, who appointed him governor of northern Italy in 369 AD.

Election as Bishop of Milan

In 374 AD, a contested election for Bishop of Milan led to the selection of Ambrose. Despite being an unbaptized catechumen at the time, he was chosen by both parties and ordained as bishop on December 7.

Episcopal Ministry

Ambrose served as bishop with great zeal and success. He prioritized the establishment of a strong ecclesiastical structure capable of outliving the crumbling Roman Empire. He defended the purity of church dogma against Arianism and fiercely guarded the church's independence from the state. Notably, he forced Emperor Theodosius to perform public penance for the massacre of rebels in Thessalonica.

Ecclesiastical Writings and Legacy

Ambrose's significance extended beyond his episcopal duties. He produced significant theological works, including "De officiis clericorum," an ethical guide for clergy; "Hexaemeron," an allegorical account of Creation; "De fide," a five-volume dogmatic treatise; and numerous letters and sermons. While commentary on 12 Pauline epistles was once attributed to Ambrose ("Ambrosiaster"), it is now considered a later compilation.

Contributions to Church Music

Ambrose played a pivotal role in developing church music. He composed spiritual songs, notably the "Te Deum laudamus," although only 12 of the 30 hymns ascribed to him are considered authentic. He also introduced the "Ambrosian chant," a rhythmic melody blending elements of oriental church music and Greek recitative.

Death and Legacy

Ambrose died on April 4, 397 AD, and was buried beneath the altar of the Ambrosian Basilica. His remains were rediscovered in 1871 and authenticated in 1873. Ambrose is revered as the patron saint of Milan, and his library bears his name. His writings were published in two volumes in Paris (1686-1690) and reissued by Ballerini in Milan (1875).