No one heals himself by wounding another.

This post originally appeared on Instagram on December 7, 2020.

Today is the feast of Saint Ambrose of Milan, bishop and doctor of the Church. Ambrose is credited, alongside Saint Monica (and the Holy Spirit 😉), with the conversion of Saint Augustine.

Ambrose was known to have a “honey tongue,” for even as he spoke difficult truths, he said them beautifully and with love.

Those of us who have been belittled and mocked for our beliefs run the risk of becoming embittered by the injustices of the world. But Saint Ambrose shows us that not only is it possible to preach with love, it is fruitful in ways that will echo down the ages.

Let us be like Saint Ambrose: honey-tongued, faithful, and orthodox.

I would also ask that all of you take a moment today to pray for bishops in general, and yours specifically.

Today’s collect prayer of the Mass:

O God, who made the Bishop Saint Ambrose a teacher of the Catholic faith
and a model of apostolic courage, raise up in your Church men after your own heart
to govern her with courage and wisdom.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.

Saint Ambrose, pray for us!