Episode Details

St. Gregory the Great, Part 1 – 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 discuss the life and legacy of Pope Gregory the Great, one of the most influential figures in Church history. Gregory, often referred to as the last of the Latin Fathers and the founder of the Medieval Papacy, left an indelible mark despite a relatively short 14-year pontificate. Born into a wealthy and noble Christian family in 540 AD, Gregory was deeply influenced by his devout upbringing, which included connections to previous popes and saints.

With a focus on the tumultuous historical context of Gregory’s life, particularly the decline of the Roman Empire and the challenges of governing a city in crisis; despite these challenges, Gregory’s contributions were immense. He reformed the church, influenced the development of Gregorian Chant, and served as a model for both bishops and secular rulers.

Gregory’s decision to leave a promising political career to become a monk is explored: his time as a monk prepared him spiritually and intellectually for the heavy responsibilities he would later bear as Pope. Despite his frail health and the overwhelming challenges of his time, Gregory’s leadership and spiritual wisdom left a lasting impact on the Church and Western civilization.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

1. Influence of Family and Upbringing: How did Gregory’s devout Christian upbringing and noble lineage shape his later decisions and contributions to the Church?
2. Responding to Crisis: In times of societal collapse, like Gregory’s Rome, how can we, as Christians, fill the leadership void with faith and service?
3. Embracing Humility: What can Gregory’s commitment to humility, despite his wealth and power, teach us about living a life of true Christian service?
4. Monastic Life and Personal Transformation: How did Gregory’s decision to embrace monastic life prepare him for greater responsibilities, and how can we apply this in our own spiritual journey?
5. Balancing Prayer and Action: How did Gregory’s monastic discipline of balancing prayer with work influence his effectiveness as a leader, and how can we cultivate this balance in our lives?
6. Legacy of Leadership: What qualities made Gregory a model for both spiritual and secular leadership, and how can we emulate these in our own roles?
7. Sanctity and Suffering: How did Gregory’s suffering and deep concern for his people reflect his sanctity, and how can we offer our own sufferings for the good of others?

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