Quote in context
Ambrose on local custom
Ambrose of Milan · attributed via Augustine, Letter 54.2
“When in Rome, do as the Romans do.”
Plain English
Augustine reports Ambrose's practical advice about differing local church customs. Not every difference in practice needs to become a fight.
Why it matters
The maxim became a lasting rule of pastoral flexibility in matters that are not essential doctrine.
Who said it
Ambrose of Milan
c. 339 – 397 · Born in Trier · Roman West
Ambrose was a Roman governor who got drafted to be bishop while still a catechumen — he wasn't even baptised yet. He used the office to make Christianity fit into the imperial Latin world: he composed hymns, wrote on the sacraments in classical Latin, and faced down the emperor Theodosius until Theodosius did public penance. He also baptised Augustine. Without him there's no Augustine, no medieval Latin liturgy, and no idea that bishops can hold emperors to account.
Book of the day
On the Holy Spirit
Basil of CaesareaA reading pick tied to today's figure, quote, era, or event. Basil gives the mature Cappadocian defense of the Spirit's divinity after Nicaea.
Daily Patristic Wisdom in your inbox
Get one early Church quote each morning, with historical context in plain English. Free. Unsubscribe whenever.