Saint Leo the Great
d. 461
Feast day – November 10
With apparent strong
conviction of the importance of the Bishop of Rome in the Church, and of the
Church as the ongoing sign of Christ’s presence in the world, Leo the Great
displayed endless dedication in his role as pope. Elected in 440, he worked
tirelessly as "Peter’s successor," guiding his fellow bishops as
"equals in the episcopacy and infirmities." Leo is known as one of
the best administrative popes of the ancient Church.
His work branched into
four main areas, indicative of his notion of the pope’s total responsibility
for the flock of Christ. He worked at length to control the heresies of
Pelagianism, Manichaeism and others, placing demands on their followers so as
to secure true Christian beliefs. A second major area of his concern was doctrinal
controversy in the Church in the East, to which he responded with a classic
letter setting down the Church’s teaching on the nature of Christ. With strong
faith, he also led the defence of Rome against barbarian attack, taking the
role of peacemaker. In these three areas, Leo’s work has been highly regarded.
His growth to sainthood has its basis in the spiritual depth with which he
approached the pastoral care of his people, which was the fourth focus of his
work. He is known for his spiritually profound sermons. An instrument of the
call to holiness, well-versed in Scripture and ecclesiastical awareness, Leo
had the ability to reach the everyday needs and interests of his people. One of
his Christmas sermons is still famous today.
At a time when there is
widespread criticism of Church structures, we also hear criticism that bishops
and priests — indeed, all of us — are too preoccupied with administration of
temporal matters. Pope Leo is an example of a great administrator who used his
talents in areas where spirit and structure are inseparably combined: doctrine,
peace and pastoral care. He avoided an "angelism" that tries to live
without the body, as well as the "practicality" that deals only in
externals.
Sources for this article were taken from: AmericanCatholic.org
Prayer
O God,
You established Your
Church on the solid rock of St. Peter.
Grant that she may
persevere in Your truth and enjoy continual peace
Through the
intercession of Pope St. Leo.
Amen.
Pope Saint Leo – Pray
for us
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