Catholic Saints

St. Ambrose (c. 340–397 AD) was the Bishop of Milan and a Doctor of the Church, known for his defense of Nicene Christianity against Arianism. Born into a prominent Roman family, he pursued a career in law and governance before his unexpected election as bishop, despite being unbaptized. A skilled theologian and eloquent orator, he influenced both church and state, famously calling Emperor Theodosius I to repentance after the massacre at Thessalonica. Ambrose’s hymns, writings, and pastoral work left a lasting legacy, including his role in the conversion and baptism of St. Augustine. His feast day is celebrated on December 7. See the work of Jesuit Refugee ServiceWatch Catholic Saints and other great content on FORMED.Sign up for a 7-day free trial of FORMED.Support this podcast and the Augustine Institute by becoming a member of the Mission Circle.

St. Nicholas of Myra, born around 270 AD in Patara, Lycia (modern-day Turkey), was a 4th-century bishop known for his generosity and devotion to helping the poor. He famously provided dowries for three impoverished sisters, saving them from slavery, and became a symbol of compassion and charity. Celebrated as the patron saint of children, sailors, and merchants, his life inspired countless legends and traditions. St. Nicholas passed away on December 6, 343 AD, and his feast day is marked by acts of giving and remembrance of his selfless spirit. See the work of Jesuit Refugee ServiceWatch Catholic Saints and other great content on FORMED.Sign up for a 7-day free trial of FORMED.Support this podcast and the Augustine Institute by becoming a member of the Mission Circle.

St. John Damascene, born around 675 AD in Damascus, was a monk, theologian, and hymnographer known for his eloquent defense of Christian doctrine. A staunch opponent of iconoclasm, he championed the veneration of holy images and wrote extensively to uphold orthodox teachings. His works, including The Fountain of Knowledge, profoundly shaped Christian theology and philosophy. St. John passed away in 749 AD, and his feast day is celebrated on December 4 as a tribute to his wisdom and devotion. See the work of Jesuit Refugee ServiceWatch Catholic Saints and other great content on FORMED.Sign up for a 7-day free trial of FORMED.Support this podcast and the Augustine Institute by becoming a member of the Mission Circle.

St. Francis Xavier, born in 1506 in Navarre, Spain, was a Jesuit missionary and one of the founding members of the Society of Jesus. Renowned for his zeal in spreading Christianity, he traveled extensively, preaching in India, Japan, and Southeast Asia, baptizing thousands. Known for his humility and dedication, he learned local languages and adapted to cultures to effectively share his faith. Francis Xavier passed away on December 3, 1552, near China, and is celebrated as the patron saint of missions and missionaries. See the work of Jesuit Refugee ServiceWatch Catholic Saints and other great content on FORMED.Sign up for a 7-day free trial of FORMED.Support this podcast and the Augustine Institute by becoming a member of the Mission Circle.