Saint of the Month: St. Gregory the Great

Facts

Feast Day: September 3
Born: c. 540, Died: March 12, 604
Saint Gregory the Great is the patron saint of teachers and England

• Became the Prefect of Rome by age 30
• Founded six monasteries on his Sicilian estate
• Elected pope at the age of 50 by the clergy and the people of Rome
• The first Pope from a monastic background
• Known as "the Father of Christian Worship" because of his efforts in revising Roman worship
• A Doctor of the Church and a Latin Father

Prayer

Father, you guide your people with kindness and govern us with love. By the prayers of Saint Gregory give the spirit of wisdom to those you have called to lead your Church. May the growth of your people in holiness be the eternal joy of your shepherds. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.