Leo became pope in the year 440 at a moment of great instability for both the Roman Empire and the Church, and used his position to strengthen the authority of the papacy while defending precise Christian doctrine. His famous 'Tome,' a letter setting out the Church's teaching that Christ is one person with two complete natures, fully human and fully divine, was read aloud and enthusiastically accepted at the Council of Chalcedon in 451, decisively settling a major theological controversy of the age.
Leo is also remembered for a dramatic act of practical courage: in 452, as Attila the Hun advanced on Rome with his army, Leo traveled out to meet him personally and persuaded him to turn back, sparing the city from destruction. He is honored as one of only two popes given the title 'the Great,' alongside Gregory the Great, and as a Doctor of the Church for his contribution to Christology.
Pope Saint Leo the Great
Pope and Doctor of the Church
A pope whose theological clarity shaped the Church's understanding of Christ's two natures, and who is remembered for personally persuading Attila the Hun to spare Rome.
- Born
- 400
- Died
- 461
- Birthplace
- Rome, Italy
- Died in
- Rome, Italy
- Country
- Italy
- Century
- 5th century
Categories
Why People Pray to Pope Saint Leo the Great
Pope Saint Leo the Great is invoked for clarity in defending the truth and for courage to act decisively in moments of crisis.
