(c.290-c.346) Saint Pachomius is considered the founder of cenobitic (communal) monasticism. He went to the desert to seek God but was inspired to create a place for others to join in community, a monastery. He wrote a rule of life said to be dictated by an angel that Saint Benedict and Saint Basil would later build on to create their more well-known rules.

Recovery is done in a community, not self-help islands. “The therapeutic value of one addict helping another is without parallel” (Narcotics Anonymous). We need our sponsor and our fellows to help us see clearly and stay on course. As we can attest in active addiction, trying to do it alone didn’t work for us.

“It is patience that reveals every grace to you, and it is through patience that the saints received all that was promised to them” (Saint Pachomius).

Reflection by Brad Farmer