St. Ambrose

"No duty is more urgent than that of returning thanks." St. Ambrose

Aurrelius Ambrosius (c340-397), Ambrose in English, is one of the original four doctors of the Church. Legend is that as an infant, a swarm of bees settled on Ambrose's face and left behind a drop of honey. His father took this as a sign of future eloquence and a honeyed tongue.

In the late 4th century, there was a deep conflict in Milan between the Nicene Church and the Arians. In 374 when the bishop died, the Arians challenged the succession. Ambrose went to the church where the election was being held to prevent an uproar. His address was interrupted by calls for him to be the new bishop. At first, he refused - he was not baptized and had no formal training in theology. Upon accepting, within a week he was baptized, ordained and consecrated as bishop.

As bishop he adopted an ascetic lifestyle, giving money to the poor and donating all of his land. Bishop Ambrose was instrumental in the conversion of St. Augustine. His feast day is December 7. Among his patronages are bees, beekeepers and candle makers.