(c.340-397) Born to Roman nobility, Ambrose was a governor in Milan, Italy. While still an unbaptised catechumen, he intervened in a dispute about the successor to the late bishop and was chosen to be that bishop himself. He was baptised, ordained a priest, and consecrated bishop of Milan on December 7, 374. His preaching helped to convert Saint Augustine, whom he baptised. He was called “The Honey-Tongued Doctor” because of his ability to convey the Faith.
Saint Ambrose is identified as one of the four great Latin Fathers of the Church. The great Fathers and Doctors of the Church provide models of teaching and living. 12-step fellowships recognise the enormous value of the insights and way of life of their predecessors. Saints inspire saints; recovery inspires recovery. Who has been your inspiration for both holiness and recovery?
“Our own evil inclinations are far more dangerous than any external enemies” (Saint Ambrose).
Reflection by Brad Farmer