A portrait of Pope St. Gregory VII
Pope St. Gregory VII
c. 1015 – May 25, 1085
Feast
May 25 · XI c.
Patron of
Reform of the Church
Order
Pope
Pope from 1073 to 1085 and one of the most consequential reformers in the history of the papacy. He vigorously fought clerical abuses, simony, and lay investiture, leading to the dramatic Investiture Controversy with Emperor Henry IV and the famous penance at Canossa. Exiled in his final years to Salerno, he died with the words 'I have loved justice and hated iniquity, therefore I die in exile.'
Life & Times
Also known as: Hildebrand of Sovana; Hildebrand of Soana · Born: c. 1015 · Died: May 25, 1085 · From: Sovana, Tuscany; Rome; Salerno.
Patronage
Pope St. Gregory VII is invoked as the patron of reform of the church. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
“I have loved justice and hated iniquity; therefore I die in exile.”— His final words at Salerno, May 25, 1085, recorded by Paul of Bernried in 'Vita Gregorii VII'
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About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including Pope St. Gregory VII, are Christians whom the Catholic Church has formally recognized as having lived lifes of heroic holiness and who now dwell with God in heaven, offering an example of faith for those still on their earthly journey. Catholics don't worship saints, but ask them to pray to God with us and for us — much as one might ask a trusted friend to pray for them — trusting that those closest to God can join their voices to ours before Him. Discover more saints in the Catholic Shop Saints section.