Why is Saint Gregory called The Great? Saint Gregory the Great: The Humble Pope Who Transformed the Church

Saint Gregory the Great: The Humble Pope Who Transformed the Church

Introduction

Saint Gregory the Great (c. 540 – 604 AD) was the 64th Pope of the Catholic Church and one of the most influential leaders in Christian history. Born into a wealthy Roman family, Gregory gave up his luxurious lifestyle to serve God and humanity.


He is called “The Great” because of his exceptional leadership, theological writings, missionary work, church reforms, and deep spirituality that transformed Christianity forever. The Catholic Church honors him as a **Doctor of the Church**, and his feast day is celebrated on **September 3rd**.




> “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.”
> (Matthew 20:26, NIV)




Saint Gregory embodied this verse throughout his life, choosing humility over power and service over status.

Early Life and Conversion

Born in Rome, around 540 AD, Gregory came from a noble and wealthy family. He received an excellent education and initially served as a **Prefect of Rome**, the highest civil position in the city at that time.




However, despite his success, Gregory felt called to a higher purpose. He gave up his political career, sold his properties, and founded six monasteries, dedicating his life to prayer and service to the poor.




“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth… but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.”
(Matthew 6:19-20)

This Scripture deeply reflected Gregory’s transformation from wealth to spiritual richness.

Pope Gregory I: The Servant Leader

In 590 AD, Gregory was elected Pope during a time of great crisis — the Roman Empire had collapsed, famine and plague were widespread, and the Church faced corruption and division.




Instead of ruling as a monarch, Gregory saw himself as the “Servant of the Servants of God” (Servus Servorum Dei), a title still used by popes today. His leadership was marked by humility, compassion, and action.

Why Saint Gregory Is Called “The Great”

Saint Gregory earned the title “The Great” because of his extraordinary contributions to the Church and society:

1. Liturgical Reform

Gregory standardized the Roman Catholic liturgy, shaping the Mass as we know it today.

He promoted Gregorian Chant, a style of sacred music still used worldwide.

2. Missionary Expansion

• He sent missionaries to England and Northern Europe, converting entire nations to Christianity.

•  His famous mission led by St. Augustine of Canterbury** transformed the spiritual landscape of Britain.

3. Charity and Care for the Poor

• Gregory organized large-scale food distributions and built hospitals for the sick.

• He personally cared for the suffering, living out Matthew 25:35-36:

“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in.”

4. Theological Writing

• His book, “Pastoral Rule”, became a timeless guide for bishops and priests.

• His Biblical commentaries helped shape Christian theology for centuries.

Saint Gregory’s Spiritual Legacy

Saint Gregory’s humility, devotion, and leadership left a lasting spiritual mark. He believed that true greatness comes from serving others, reflecting Jesus Christ’s teachings:

“Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”
(Matthew 23:12)




Even as Pope, Gregory lived simply and gave generously, becoming a model of servant leadership for all Christians.




NOTE:
Saint Gregory the Great stands as a shining example of humility, faith, and servant leadership. His reforms, missionary efforts, and charitable works reshaped the Church and impacted the world for centuries.




As believers, we are inspired by his life to serve others selflessly and deepen our relationship with God.

“Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
(Galatians 6:9)