(672-735) Saint Bede was an English Benedictine monk who was a Bible scholar, theologian, scientist, and historian. He is considered the most educated man of his time and is the “father” of English history. During his life, he was sought out for both his spiritual and intellectual gifts. He is the only English Doctor of the Church.

Bede was thought to be the smartest person in the room, yet he had humility and open-mindedness to be teachable and continue to learn. These characteristics are essential, along with a willingness to try something new. Both recovery and the spiritual life are about relationship, not technique. Are you still humble, open-minded, and willing in your recovery and in your pilgrimage to the Father?

“So this life of man appears for a short space, but of what went before, or what is to follow, we are entirely ignorant” (Saint Bede, Ecclesiastical History of England).

Reflection by Brad Farmer