Saint of the Day: St. Leo the Great, Bishop, Doctor


St. Leo was born in Rome of Italian nobility and was ordained Pope in 440. He was a true pastor and father of souls. He labored strenuously to safeguard the integrity of the faith and vigorously defended the unity of the Church.

When Attilla marched on Rome, Leo went out to meet him and pleaded for leave. As Leo spoke, Attila saw the vision of a man in Priestly robes, carrying a bare sword, and threatening to kill the invader if he did not obey Pope Leo. As Leo had a great devotion to Saint Peter, it is generally believed the first Pope was the visionary opponent to the Huns.

When Genseric invaded Rome, Leo's sanctity and eloquence saved the city again. He has then deservedly won the title "the Great." He died in 461. St. Leo wrote letters and homilies encouraging and teaching his flock, many of which survive today; it is for these writings that Leo was proclaimed a Doctor of the Church in 1574.

Quotes

"Virtue is nothing without the trial of temptation, for there is no conflict without an enemy, no victory without strife."

"Short and fleeting are the joys of this world's pleasures which endeavors to turn aside from the path of life those who are called to eternity. The faithful and religious spirit, therefore, must desire the things which are heavenly, and being eager for the Divine promises, lift itself to the love of the incorruptible Good and the hope of the true Light."

~ St. Leo the Great
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