Episode Details

St. Gregory the Great, Part 2 – The Doctors of the Church: The Charism of Wisdom with Dr. Matthew Bunson

• Born: 540 AD, Rome, Italy
• Died: March 12, 604 AD, Rome, Italy

Dr. Matthew Bunson and Kris McGregor continue their discussion on the life and legacy of Pope Gregory I, also known as Gregory the Great. This time, they explore his pivotal role as a civil leader and spiritual giant during the decline of the Western Roman Empire. Gregory, the first monk to become Pope, was a towering figure in the Church who introduced significant liturgical reforms and emphasized the unity of the Church through its liturgy.

His influence extended to Gregorian Chant, although his exact role in its creation is uncertain. Gregory’s writings, including over 800 letters, homilies, and his “Pastoral Rule,” were monumental in shaping the Church’s doctrine and pastoral care. He also wrote a key text on the life of St. Benedict, which laid the foundation for monastic life that preserved Western culture through turbulent times.

Gregory’s focus on eschatology and the salvation of souls drove him to send missionaries, such as Augustine of Canterbury, to evangelize Europe, marking the beginning of widespread Christianization in the West. His humility and dedication to service are encapsulated in the title he coined for himself, “Servant of the Servants of God.” Gregory is seen as a bridge between the era of the Church Fathers and the emerging medieval Church, making him one of the most influential popes in history.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

1. Gregory’s Humility and Leadership: How can we cultivate humility in our own lives while effectively leading others in faith?
2. Role of Liturgy in Faith Formation: In what ways does the liturgy shape our understanding and practice of the Catholic faith?
3. Legacy of Gregorian Chant: How does the legacy of Gregorian Chant inspire us to appreciate the importance of sacred music in worship?
4. Evangelization and Missionary Work: What lessons can we learn from Gregory’s missionary efforts in spreading the Gospel to new territories?
5. Scripture as Nourishment: How can we deepen our relationship with God through a more contemplative reading of Scripture, as Gregory did?
6. Service to the Church: How can we embody the spirit of being a “Servant of the Servants of God” in our daily interactions and ministry?
7. Facing Modern Challenges with Faith: In what ways can Gregory’s approach to dealing with the crises of his time guide us in addressing contemporary issues in the Church?

For more on St. Gregory the Great and his teachings:

• Gregory the Great, Pope (c. 540-604)
• Pastoral Rule
• Register of Letters

From Vatican.va, an excerpt from the teachings of Pope Benedict XVI General Audience 2008:

“In the theological plan that Gregory develops regarding his works, the past, present and future are compared. What counted for him more than anything was the entire arch of salvation history, that continues to