Ambrose was born into the ruling class. His pagan father was the governor of Gaul and Spain. His mother was a Christian. On the death of his father, the Emperor made him governor of Liguria, the provincial capital being Milan. When the bishop of Milan died, there was a great controversy over who should replace him. The Arians were trying to elect their bishop. Ambrose entered the Church in the middle of the turmoil, since it was part of his responsibility to maintain good order. A nursing child cried out: "Ambrose for bishop!" This was taken for a sign from God and they unanimously elected Ambrose against his will. He was Baptised and ordained Deacon and Priest and consecrated Bishop in one week. He was an excellent Bishop. He restrained the heretics, evangelised the pagans, built and adorned churches and wrote many instructive texts. He worked tirelessly for the Church. He fasted everyday except Saturday and Sunday. He discovered the relics of several Saints. He healed the sick and even raised the dead. He was not afraid to oppose rulers who were heretical, yet walked humbly among the common people. This beloved Bishop was granted the grace to die peacefully at daybreak on Pascha, 397.
Troparion (Tone 1)
O Ambrose, wonderworker and champion of the Church, Godbearing Hierarch: thou didst work miracles by thy faith and love for God; therefore we the earthborn glorify thee and cry out: Glory to Him Who has glorified thee; glory to Him Who has crowned thee; glory to Him Who through thee works healings for all.