(1559-1619) The Doctor Apostolicus, or “Apostolic Doctor”, was born in Brindisi, Italy as Julius Caesar de Rossi. He took the name Lorenzo (Lawrence in English) when he joined the Capuchin Franciscans at 16. He learned at least seven different languages, including Biblical Hebrew, and studied theology. He became a priest, military chaplain of the Holy Roman army, diplomat, and missionary. He was an excellent and effective preacher and wrote catechisms.

The source material and treasure trove of inspiration for saints, mystics, and Doctors of the Church is always Sacred Scripture. How consistent are you in your 11th Step? How often is Scripture your source for meditation material?

“The word of the Lord is a light for the mind and a fire for the will, so that man may know and love God. For the inner man, who lives through the living grace of God’s Spirit, it is bread and water, but bread sweeter than honey and water better than wine or milk…It is a weapon against a heart stubbornly entrenched in vice. It is a sword against the flesh, the world and the devil, to destroy every sin” (Saint Lawrence of Brindisi).

Reflection by Brad Farmer