What does "Doctor" mean?

[nate_trigeek]

Some of the Saints, e.g. Saint Augustine of Hippo, Saint Ambrose, have the title “Doctor” given to them as well as saint. To what does this refer and how is it given? Is this still done today? Just curious. Thanks!!

 

[Br.Rich_SFO]

Some of the Saints, e.g. Saint Augustine of Hippo, Saint Ambrose, have the title “Doctor” given to them as well as saint. To what does this refer and how is it given? Is this still done today? Just curious. Thanks!!

Yes, there have been Doctors of the Church created in the last 10 years. It is a title given to those Saints who have written large volumes if Catholic theological or Spiritual writings.

 

[Verbum]

Hi Nate,

“Doctor” means “teacher”.

The title has long been given to saints whose teachings have been influential in the church. St. Theresa of the Child Jesus (Sainte Thérèse de Lisieux) has received the title although she wrote only one book, her own biography, at the request of her superior in the convent. For more info see :

newadvent.org/cathen/05075a.htm

Verbum