Saint Ambrose, Bishop and Doctor of the Church
Bishop, Doctor, Memorial
Other Celebrations for this Day:
Liturgical Cycle: B | Lectionary Cycle: I
Introduction
Prefect of Milan, Ambrose tried to prevent a riot at the election of a new bishop of Milan to succeed the Arian bishop. Someone shouted: “Ambrose bishop!” Still a catechumen, he finally accepted the charge. He became a very good pastor, with time for everybody. In his region he was able to put an end to Arianism and was instrumental in preparing the conversion of St. Augustine.
Opening Prayer
Lord our God,
we thank you today for St. Ambrose.
Give to your Church today
wise and caring shepherds like him
who speak your word to us with love and zeal.
May pastors learn from him
to educate their people in the faith
with an easily understood form of preaching
that links the life of the faithful
to the worship they are giving to God.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Prayers of the Faithful
Prayer over the Gifts
Lord our God,
with bread and wine we celebrate
how close your Son is to us.
May he also bring the shepherds of your Church
close to the people under their care,
listening to them and guiding them
with love and care to the shepherd of all,
Jesus Christ our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Lord our God,
in this eucharistic celebration
your Son Jesus has been our teacher
speaking to us of how you are concerned about us
and how we can understand and love you.
Make all bishops in the Church
wise teachers of their people,
with a sure hand and an understanding heart,
who show the way to you,
our loving God, now and for ever.