Memorial of Saint Gregory the Great, Pope and Doctor of the Church
In her liturgy today, the Catholic Church honors St. Gregory the Great, Pope from 590 to 604. Born into a wealthy family, St. Gregory was well-educated and rose to prominence in Roman society. He was involved in both politics and religion. Due to his writings and his influence on the Divine Liturgy and Gregorian Chant, he is known as one of the four great Church Fathers.
After his father’s death, St. Gregory founded a monastery on the family property. He desired to serve God through the contemplative life. However, his God-given gifts eventually called him into service as the Bishop of Rome. His leadership was that of a servant. He acknowledged that his treasure (work and ministry) was contained in an earthen vessel, but that the surpassing power was from God.
St. Gregory’s humility, a virtue he admired in St. Benedict, was his foundation.
Reflection by Br. Jacab Kubajak, OSB
Posted in Articles for Ordinary Time, Daily Reflections