In a world that often feels chaotic and on the brink of collapse, it’s easy to feel small and powerless. We see conflict, division, and the erosion of values, and we wonder, “What can one person possibly do?” When faced with such overwhelming forces, we might be tempted to despair. But the life of St. Leo the Great, one of only three popes to be given that title, offers a powerful antidote to that feeling.
Most of us have heard the name Attila the Hun. He was the "Scourge of God," a ruthless warrior who left a trail of destruction across Europe. In 452, his barbarian horde stood at the gates of Rome, ready to plunder and destroy the Eternal City. The Roman army was powerless to stop him. All hope seemed lost.
But then, something extraordinary happened. An unarmed, elderly man, Pope Leo I, went out to meet the fearsome conqueror. While the details of their conversation are shrouded in legend, the outcome is a historical fact: Attila the Hun, the man who had terrorized a continent, turned his army around and spared Rome. According to pious tradition, as Leo spoke with Attila, the Hun saw a vision of St. Peter and St. Paul standing behind the Pope, brandishing swords of flame. Whether it was the Pope’s words, a miraculous vision, or a combination of both, the power of faith triumphed over the power of the sword.
St. Leo the Great’s courage in the face of overwhelming odds is a testament to his unwavering faith. But his greatness wasn’t limited to this single, dramatic event. He was also a brilliant theologian who played a crucial role in clarifying the Church’s teaching on the nature of Jesus Christ. At the Council of Chalcedon in 451, his famous "Tome" was proclaimed as "the voice of Peter," settling a fierce debate and affirming the doctrine that Jesus is one divine person with two natures, both human and divine. This may sound like an abstract theological point, but it goes to the very heart of our faith. It reminds us that Jesus is both fully God and fully human, and that in him, heaven and earth are united.
But perhaps the most relatable aspect of St. Leo’s life is his deep pastoral care for his people. He wasn’t just a brilliant administrator or a courageous leader; he was a true shepherd who loved his flock. He understood that being a Christian isn’t just about believing the right things; it’s about living out the Gospel in a world of suffering and need.
In our own time, we may not be facing down barbarian hordes at the gates of our cities. But we all face our own "Attilas"; our own fears, our own struggles, our own moments of doubt and despair. The life of St. Leo the Great reminds us that we are not powerless. With faith, courage, and a heart for others, we can make a difference. We can be a force for peace in a world of conflict. We can be a voice of truth in a world of confusion. And we can be a source of hope in a world of despair.
St. Leo the Great shows us that holiness isn’t just for the saints of the past. It’s a call for each of us, here and now. It’s a call to say "yes" to God in the midst of our daily lives, to trust in His power, and to be His hands and feet in the world. This colorful and engaging book introduces children to the history and mission of the pope.
Teaching our children about the papacy and especially about the many amazing popes can be a great way to share the faith. Blending fun facts with solid Catholic teaching, OSV Kids Discover: The Pope helps young readers appreciate the pope’s role as the successor of St. Peter and the visible head of the Church.
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