St. Leo the Great: The Pope Who Defended the Faith and Saved Rome

•Pope and Doctor 
•Feast day: November 10 
•400-461 

St. Leo I, known as St. Leo the Great, was one of the most influential Popes in the early Church. Born in Rome in 400 AD, he served as a guiding light for Christian doctrine and courageously defended Rome from invasions, leaving an indelible mark on Church history. Pope Leo’s intellectual and spiritual contributions have made him a model of papal leadership, and he is one of the only two Popes honored with the title “the Great,” along with Pope St. Gregory.

Early Life and Rise to the Papacy

St. Leo’s journey to greatness began with his deep dedication to the Church, which eventually led to his appointment as the personal secretary to Pope Celestine I. His strong moral conviction and theological insight earned him high regard among Church leaders. When Pope Sixtus III died in 440, the people of Rome and the clergy overwhelmingly elected Leo to be his successor. Leo was consecrated as Pope on September 29, 440.

Leo’s Role in the Council of Chalcedon: Defining the Doctrine of the Incarnation

Pope Leo’s theological prowess was most notably displayed at the Council of Chalcedon in 451. This ecumenical council sought to resolve a controversy over the nature of Christ. Eutyches, a monk from Constantinople, had promoted the Monophysite belief that Christ possessed only one divine nature, essentially denying His humanity. Leo’s “Tome,” a letter he wrote to Archbishop Flavian of Constantinople, provided a masterful explanation of Christ’s dual nature—fully human and fully divine. In his letter, he explained that these two natures coexist “without confusion, without change, without division, without separation.”

When the papal legates read Leo’s “Tome” to the assembled bishops, they unanimously acclaimed, “Peter has spoken through Leo!” This declaration underscored the Pope’s authority and highlighted the profound impact of his teachings. Leo’s definition of the Incarnation has remained the cornerstone of Church teaching, affirming that Jesus Christ is both true God and true man.

The Heroic Encounter with Attila the Hun

In 452, Pope Leo confronted one of the most feared invaders in history—Attila the Hun. Known as the “Scourge of God,” Attila had invaded Italy and was on the brink of sacking Rome. As panic spread and many fled in fear, Pope Leo courageously set out to meet Attila. Carrying only a cross, he convinced Attila to turn back, sparing Rome from destruction.

According to tradition, Attila’s decision to retreat was influenced by a miraculous vision in which he saw the apostles Peter and Paul standing beside Leo, threatening divine wrath should he proceed. While historians debate the specifics, the fact remains that Attila halted his advance and withdrew his troops, which many attributed to Pope Leo’s courage and faith.

Pope Leo’s Vision at the Tomb of St. Peter

Pope Leo’s deep devotion to St. Peter was evident in a story passed down by tradition. In an intense period of prayer at the tomb of St. Peter, Leo sought forgiveness for any mistakes he might have made as Pope. After praying for 40 days, St. Peter appeared to him, saying, “Your sins are forgiven by God, except those committed in conferring holy orders.” This encounter motivated Leo to strengthen ordination standards, instituting requirements for a thorough examination of candidates and only ordaining men of mature age and proven virtue.

Legacy and Influence

Pope Leo’s legacy is vast, touching on theology, liturgy, and Church administration. He championed the primacy of the Roman See, reinforcing the idea that the Pope is the successor of St. Peter, with a unique role as guardian of Church unity and doctrine. His letters, sermons, and pastoral teachings were instrumental in shaping the Western Church. Known for his eloquence, he often said, “The true measure of strength is not in dominating others but in mastering oneself.” This sentiment reflects his belief in humility, a virtue he exemplified throughout his papacy.

Notable Writings and Quotes

• Leo’s Sermons: Pope Leo was known for his powerful sermons, which remain celebrated for their theological depth and pastoral care. One of his famous sermons on the Incarnation states, “Christian, remember your dignity, and now that you share in God’s own nature, do not return to your former base condition by sinning. Remember who is your head and of whose body you are a member.”
• Leo’s “Tome”: The “Tome of Leo” stands as a landmark in Christian theology. It not only clarified Christological doctrines but set a precedent for papal teaching authority, contributing to the Church’s understanding of the Pope’s role as a guide in matters of faith.

Final Years and Canonization

Pope Leo I passed away on November 10, 461. His relics are now venerated in St. Peter’s Basilica. In 1754, Pope Benedict XIV declared him a Doctor of the Church, recognizing his theological contributions and sanctity. Leo’s feast day is celebrated on November 10, a time when the faithful reflect on his life and legacy.

Trivia and Lesser-Known Facts

• Papal Authority: Leo emphasized the Pope’s role as the successor of St. Peter, and his leadership solidified Rome’s prominence in the Church. He was one of the first Popes to use the title “Pontifex Maximus,” a title previously used by Roman emperors.
• Advocate of the Poor: Leo was known for his compassion toward the impoverished. He instituted several charitable programs, demonstrating his commitment to serving the physical and spiritual needs of his flock.
• His Papal Tomb: St. Leo is one of the few Popes interred inside St. Peter’s Basilica, near the high altar, a tribute to his profound impact on the Church.

St. Leo the Great remains a towering figure in the history of the Church. His courage in the face of danger, his theological clarity, and his pastoral wisdom have left an enduring legacy. Known for his deep love of Christ and the Church, Pope Leo inspires Catholics worldwide, a model of strength, faith, and humility. His life serves as a reminder of the Pope’s role as the defender of truth and shepherd of souls, uniting the faithful under one belief.