(1007-1072) Peter was the youngest member of a large family in Ravenna, Italy. He was orphaned, lived with a brother who treated him poorly, and was eventually adopted by another brother, Damian, who was a priest. Peter added his brother’s name to his own out of gratitude. He studied theology and canon law, became a teacher, and then left the secular world to become a Benedictine monk at 28. Peter wrote prolifically, counseled popes, and helped reform the priesthood. He was a man of deep prayer and had a love of the Cross. He was eventually recognized as a Doctor of the Church.
Pope Benedict XVI said in a General Audience on September 9, 2009: “Saint Peter Damian, who was essentially a man of prayer, meditation and contemplation, was also a fine theologian: his reflection on various doctrinal themes led him to important conclusions for life.” In prayer we seek “knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out” (Step 11). Does prayer impact your actions and life choices?
“May Christ be heard in our language, may Christ be seen in our life, may he be perceived in our hearts” (Saint Peter Damian).
Reflection by Brad Farmer