Born in 337 A.D., St. Ambrose had a very successful secular career by the time he was 33. He was a lawyer, the Governor of Milan, and a personal friend of the Emperor. He also owned a large estate, afforded to him by his position. When the Bishop of Milan died, around 374 A.D., a great number of heresies were threatening the early Church, including Arianism. The late Bishop was a supporter of Arius, and there was great controversy, even rioting, over who would take his place: an Arian or a Catholic? When Ambrose was speaking, trying to convince people to decide without violence, people began shouting "Ambrose for Bishop!" Ambrose fled, and then appealed to the Emperor on the grounds that he, Ambrose, was not even baptized yet; however, this was fruitless, and Ambrose gave in. He took the office of Bishop, and began a life of poverty, giving his wealth away to the poor. He used his skill as an orator and lawyer to combat the Arian heresy.
St. Ambrose contributed to the Church numerous written works (over 100), including a defense of the doctrine of the Incarnation. He also composed a number of religious songs and hymns.
St. Ambrose contributed to the Church numerous written works (over 100), including a defense of the doctrine of the Incarnation. He also composed a number of religious songs and hymns.
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