Saint Leo the Great served as pope from 440 to 461 and is honored as a Doctor of the Church. His famous Tome, affirming that Christ is one person in two natures, was decisive at the Council of Chalcedon in 451. In 452 he met Attila the Hun and persuaded him to turn back from attacking Rome.
Leo shows how clear teaching and pastoral courage can hold a community together in turbulent times. He defended the truth of who Christ is while also personally stepping forward to protect his people, uniting doctrine with concrete charity and bravery.
O God, who raised up Saint Leo to shepherd your Church with wisdom and courage, grant that we may hold fast to the truth of Christ and serve others without fear. Amen.