(1190-1246) Peter was born in Castille, Spain, and educated by his uncle, the Bishop of Astorga. He was ordained a priest and his uncle set him up as canon of Palencia, even though he was too young. He was embarrassed of this position and left to become a Dominican. Peter became the court preacher to King Saint Ferdinand III of Castille, reformed court life, preached the crusade against the Moors, and accompanied King Ferdinand into battle. He then advocated for the humane treatment of the Moorish prisoners. Peter retired from courtly life and preached to shepherds and sailors in Spain and Portugal.
Blessed Peter’s friends and family thought he should follow the more prestigious career path when he chose to follow the Dominican path. In recovery, we sometimes have to make life choices that former associates or family members don’t fully understand. Have you had to make changes for your recovery to people, places, or things that others did not initially understand?
“If you love me, follow me! If you cannot follow me, forget me!” (Blessed Peter Gonzalez).
Reflection by Brad Farmer