St. Gregory the Great
Pope and Doctor of the Church
Feast Day: September 3
Biography
St. Gregory (c. 540–604) was born in Rome to a wealthy, devout family. He entered public service and around 573 became prefect of the city, its highest civil office. Soon afterward he gave up his career, turned his family home on the Caelian Hill into the monastery of St. Andrew, and became a monk. Pope Pelagius II ordained him a deacon and sent him as papal representative to the imperial court at Constantinople. In 590, while plague ravaged Rome, Gregory was chosen pope against his own wishes. He was consecrated on September 3, 590, which is why his feast falls today. As pope he organized relief for the hungry, negotiated with the invading Lombards, reformed the Church's administration, and called himself 'servant of the servants of God,' a title popes still use. In 596 he sent St. Augustine and a band of monks to evangelize the English. His writings include the Pastoral Rule, a guide for bishops, the Dialogues, which include the life of St. Benedict, and the Moralia on the Book of Job. Later tradition linked his name to the Church's plainchant, now called Gregorian chant. He died on March 12, 604. Honored as one of the four great Latin Doctors, he was formally named a Doctor of the Church in 1298.
Patronages
Symbols
Prayer
St. Gregory, faithful servant of the servants of God, you shepherded Christ's flock through plague, famine, and war. Pray for our Holy Father and for all who lead God's people. Help me to serve others with humility, to make time for contemplation amid my duties, and to share the Gospel with those who have not yet heard it. Amen.
Asking for Intercession
Catholics ask saints to pray with us and for us, as we ask friends on earth. St. Gregory the Great, who lives in God's presence, intercedes before His throne. Speak from your heart: “St. Gregory the Great, please pray for me…” You may also pray the prayer above or include this intention in your Rosary.