Homily: Feast of St. Ambrose

Feast of St. Ambrose (Mt. 7:21, 24-27) “Called and Chosen”

Sometimes we don’t recognize our own abilities. Others may point them out to us. At such times, it could be the voice of God. A vocational call originates from within us or from God or from the Christian community. The story of St. Ambrose is a case of a call coming from the Christian community.

Ambrose lived in the fourth century in Milan. He was a well-educated young man from an affluent family. He worked for the government and all signs pointed to him taking up a post in civil society. He proved himself to be a very capable administrator.

It is hard for us to imagine, but in Ambrose’s time the bishop of the local diocese was the primary leader not only in religious affairs but also in governmental affairs. The bishop oversaw keeping streets clean and law and order in society.

When a diocesan seat became vacant it was an important moment. People wanted a talented individual to be their bishop. When Ambrose was a young civil official the seat of Milan became vacant. A new bishop had to be chosen.

It is also hard for us to picture how a bishop was selected. The Pope did not name them, but a man became bishop by popular acclamation. The people chose their religious leader.

An open meeting took place in the city square. Names were called out. There was no clear choice until someone shouted out Ambrose’s name. Many people took up the cry. Finally, Ambrose accepted.

At the time Ambrose was not even a priest. He had to be ordained deacon, priest and then bishop. Ambrose humbly took up his task. He saw his vocation as a call from the Christian community. He served that community with distinction. He became one of the best church leaders of all time and he inspired the vocation of St. Augustine.

Reflection Questions:

1.    Have I ever been called to leadership? Where? How?

2.   Do I feel better when others want me to lead? Do I feel a stronger call when I choose to lead?

Dear Parishioners,

          This Sunday we will have a celebration of Our Lady of Guadalupe at the 9:15am Mass. We will have a short play which reenacts the appearances of our Lady to St. Juan Diego. If you don’t know the story this is our chance to learn about it.

          There will also be traditional dance and Mexican food after Mass. There will also be a blessing of statue of baby Jesus. You are invited to bring the statue from your creche to be blessed for Christmas.

          This should be a grand celebration. Come and join us.

          May our Lady pray for us as we celebrate her feasts this week,

          Fr. Mark