Each day, the liturgical calendar recalls figures who left a profound mark on the history of Christianity. September 3 is especially dedicated to Saint Gregory the Great, considered one of the great pontiffs of late antiquity and a key figure during the transition to medieval Europe.
SAINT GREGORY I THE GREAT
Saint Gregory I the Great was born in Rome around the year 540 into a wealthy family. Before fully devoting himself to religious life, he held responsibilities in the city’s administration, but later abandoned that career and turned his family home into a monastery.
In 590, he was elected pope during an especially difficult period marked by wars, disease and the economic hardships affecting Rome. During his papacy, he promoted the Church’s pastoral and missionary work, addressed the needs of the population and encouraged the evangelization of new territories, including England.
Saint Gregory the Great died in Rome in 604. In addition to his work as pontiff, he left behind an important body of writing on pastoral, theological and spiritual matters. He is one of the four great Doctors of the Latin Church, and his feast day is celebrated every September 3.
WHY ARE SAINTS’ FEAST DAYS CELEBRATED?
The Christian calendar originated in the tradition of remembering each day the saints and blesseds recognized by the Church. These commemorations highlight the lives and testimony of people who stood out for their faith and the example they set throughout their lives.
Over time, the celebration of saints also became linked to name days, meaning that many people celebrate on the day the Church remembers the saint after whom they were named. This custom remains deeply rooted in many countries with a Christian tradition.
