(d.310) Eusebius was the 31st pope for only four months. After a period of persecution in the Roman Empire, Saint Eusebius advocated that the “lapsi,” or those that renounced their faith but then came back to embrace it, should be readmitted to communion with the Church after an appropriate penance. Emperor Maxentius disagreed and exiled him to the island of Sicily. Eusebius died shortly after and was considered a martyr for the faith by Pope Damasus.

After a moral and searching inventory (Steps 4-5), we become acutely aware of our defects and are ready to have God remove them (Step 6). We humbly ask Him to remove them (Step 7). In a sense, we are like the “lapsi,” we have fallen and seek restoration. We are ready to do penance to right our wrongs.

“Have mercy on me, God, in accord with your merciful love; in your abundant compassion blot out my transgressions. Thoroughly wash away my guilt; and from my sin cleanse me…A clean heart create for me, God; renew within me a steadfast spirit. Do not drive me from before your face, nor take from me your holy spirit” (Psalm 51:3-4, 12-13).

Reflection by Brad Farmer