Saint Gregory the Great (c.540-604)

When he was in his 30s, Gregory sold the many properties he owned, established seven monasteries in Italy, and distributed much of his considerable wealth to the poor. The next year he became a monk, and devoted himself to an austere life of contemplation and pastoral care of the plague-stricken in Rome. Because he was well known for his holiness, in 590 he was elected pope. Though he did not want the role, he accepted it. As pope he continued his care of the poor and hungry and challenged other leaders to attend to those in need rather than the worldly interests of the Church. Gregory also recognized the need for reform in the Church, and imposed important changes in its government. He promoted monasticism, and is credited with writing many of the prayers recited at Mass. Especially noteworthy among his writings is "Pastoral Care," which describes the ministry of bishops as the shepherding of souls. It became the textbook for medieval bishops. Gregory's way of referring to himself as pope was as "servant of the servants of God." He is the patron saint of England, musicians, singers, teachers, popes, and victims of plague. His feast day is September 3. (Taken from "The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth.")