<p>Leo was born to Tuscan parents. His religious beliefs guided his entire life. As a deacon he worked to bring peace to warring Roman factions that were leaving Gaul vulnerable to barbarian invasion. Leo is well-known for his peacekeeping efforts, in particular for his encounter with Attila the Hun when he persuaded Attila not to plunder Rome. During another attack 3 years later, Leo was not so successful, though he did manage to save the city from being burnt. Leo worked alongside the people to rebuild the city and its churches.</p>
<p>Pope from 440 until his death in 461, Leo is best known for his pastoral sermons on faith and charity. His writing on the Incarnation was acclaimed at the Council of Chalcedon in 451. Always a strong opponent of heresies, his teaching has had a lasting influence on the life of the Roman Church. He is the first pope whose sermons and letters have been preserved in extensive collections. He was made Doctor of the Church in 1754.©2011 <em>Living with Christ, </em>Novalis - Bayard Press Canada Inc., <strong>http://www.livingwithchrist.ca/</strong>. Reprinted with permission.</p>
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