Feast day: September 3
When did St. Gregory the Great live: 540 - 604
Biography:
Gregory was born in 540 as the son of a wealthy senator who became one of the seven deacons of Rome. After his education, Gregory was appointed Chief Magistrate of Rome despite his young age. Only one year later, he became a monk and built six monasteries in Sicily and one in his house in Rome. Then, after the death of Pelagius, Gregory was elected Pope. Although he was not in good shape, he managed to keep touch with many churches and even found time to compose some works. Gregory died in 604. Nowadays, he is considered one of the four great Doctors of the Church.
Patronage: St. Gregory the Great is patron saint of teacher,of Church education, the mines, the choirs and choral singing; scholars, students, singers, musicians, bricklayers, button makers and against gout and plague
Statues and wooden sculptures representing St. Gregory the great- portrayal, imagery and emblem: St. Gregory the Great is shown as Pope with tiara, papal cross, books and dove.