MEMORIAL: NOVEMBER 10
Pope St. Leo the Great was born into a wealthy Roman family in the beginning of the 5th century. As a young man he served as a deacon under the Roman Pontiff, and was known as a skilled peacemaking mediator. Leo was eventually appointed Pope at the age of 40.
Leo was a great defender of the faith, fighting heresies against the Manicheans and Palgians. He also defended the true nature of Jesus as fully God and fully Man. Pope Leo would also defend Rome against the invasion of Attila the Hun by coming to a peaceful agreement.
Leo is largely regarded as the best administrator of the early Church. His homilies and writings are still a vital part of the Church’s living prayer today. He is a Doctor of the Church and is the first pope to be labeled ‘great.’
