(c.1290-1351) Born to Italian nobility, Conrad married an aristocratic lady when they were both young. Little information can be provided with certainty other than that Conrad later became a Third Order Franciscan and lived a life of prayer and penance as a hermit. Legend, however, tells of him setting a fire while hunting to flush out his prey. The fire got out of hand and burned nearby fields, forests, and villages. Conrad reluctantly confessed, sold his belongings to pay for damages, and gave what was left to the poor. Finally, his wife became a Poor Clare while he became a Franciscan hermit. His reputation for holiness spread far, and he was said to have had the gift of healing.
This story about Saint Conrad demonstrates making amends and reliance on God’s power. Making amends can be difficult and may require a great deal of humility. Sometimes we can’t make amends in a moment, but have to make a permanent change in our lives or make ongoing penance to show our repentance. How is penance a part of your recovery?
“My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness” (1 Corinthians 12:9).
Reflection by Brad Farmer