(1085-1142) Saint William was born to Italian nobility, orphaned as an infant, and, at 14, made a pilgrimage to the tomb of Saint James in Spain, where he decided to give his life to God and become a hermit. William had such a reputation for holiness, including the possible healing of a blind man, that others sought him out, and he eventually founded a monastery. With time, William’s example and way of life proved too difficult for others, and when the complaining became too much, he removed himself and travelled to Naples, where he ended up as an adviser to the king. He founded several more monasteries, and there exists a very similar legend of William taming a wolf to that of Saint Hervé from June 17th (Hervé lived 500 years earlier).

Good living is attractive and contagious. Saint William was inspired on pilgrimage. We are also on a journey. Take some time today to reflect on your recovery pilgrimage. One day at a time takes us further than we thought possible.

Saint William of Vercelli, pray for us, that we might follow in your example and live in a way that is attractive and contagious, drawing others to the light of recovery and closeness to Christ. Amen.