St. Gregory

Born around 540 to a noble Roman family, St. Gregory the Great served as prefect of Rome before giving away his wealth to become a monk. Elected pope in 590, he cared for the poor through famine and plague, strengthened the Church’s liturgy and music, and sent missionaries to bring the Gospel to England. He died on March 12, 604, and is one of the original Doctors of the Church. His feast day is September 3, and he is honored as a patron of teachers, students and musicians.