(1245-1305) The “Patron of Holy Souls” was named after Santa Claus, or more clearly, Saint Nicholas of Myra, after his parents visited that saint’s shrine with prayers for a pregnancy. He became an Augustinian friar at 18 and ordained a priest seven years later, gaining a reputation as a great preacher. Nicholas received visions of Purgatory, had a devotion to the recently deceased, and often prayed late into the night for souls in Purgatory.
Humility is necessary for us to be honest, open-minded, and willing. Each of these spiritual principles is essential for recovery. In serving others, Saint Nicholas exemplified humility, always pointing to God as the source of all good gifts (James 1:17). How do you develop and grow in humility in your recovery?
“Say nothing of this. Give thanks to God, not to me. I am only a vessel of clay, a poor sinner” (Saint Nicholas, when God would work miracles through his prayers).
Reflection by Brad Farmer