Saint Natalis of Milan

Biography

Saint Natalis of Milan, also known as Natale, was a prominent figure in the history of the Catholic Church, particularly in the region of Milan, Italy. He was born in an unknown year and was ordained as a priest early in his life. His noble character and strong commitment to his faith would eventually lead him to become the Bishop of Milan for a relatively short period of time, from 746 to 747. During his tenure as Bishop of Milan, Saint Natalis faced the challenging task of overseeing the conversion of the Arian Lombards, a group of Lombards who held heretical beliefs and were gradually turning towards orthodox Christianity. This period marked a crucial period in the history of the Church, as it sought to reconcile and unify different factions and doctrines within the Lombard community. Despite the difficulties Saint Natalis confronted, his intelligence and spiritual conviction shone through in the way he governed his diocese. His reputation as a wise and compassionate leader, committed to promoting the true teachings of Christ, earned him the respect and admiration of both clergy and laity alike. As a representation of his role as a bishop and teacher, Saint Natalis is often depicted in artwork alongside a child holding a book. This symbolism highlights his dedication to educating and guiding others in the ways of the faith. It serves as a reminder of his leadership and the important role he played in imparting religious knowledge to his flock. Saint Natalis of Milan passed away on May 13, 747, due to natural causes. He was buried in the church of San Giorgio al Palazzo, a church he had constructed during his time as Bishop. The impact of his short but significant term as Bishop of Milan was widely recognized, and he was later canonized as a saint by the Church. It is worth noting that the process of canonization occurred before the implementation of the formal Congregation for the Causes of Saints, which means that Saint Natalis was recognized and venerated as a saint prior to the standardization of the canonization process. Although Saint Natalis does not hold a specific patronage, his life and example continue to inspire countless individuals who seek to deepen their faith and serve the Church faithfully. His dedication to the truth and his tireless efforts in promoting the orthodox Christian teachings have left a lasting legacy in the annals of the Milanese Church and the wider Catholic community. His feast day is celebrated on May 13th each year, a day of remembrance and veneration for his righteous life and virtuous service to God and his people.