Saint Flannan (d.642)
for December 18
Saint Flannan was the son of an Irish chieftain and next in line for the throne. Flannan feared becoming king, and prayed for a disfigurement that would prevent his ascension to the throne. After his prayer, his face became inflamed with scars, rashes, and boils. Upon his disqualification for kingship, Flannan became the intellectual and spiritual student of a monk. He desperately wanted to join a monastery, but faced fierce opposition from his family. He finally made them realize that the monastic lifestyle was his true vocation and became a missionary monk. Flannan traveled throughout Ireland, Scotland, and the Hebrides preaching the Good News. Saint Flannan eventually became the bishop of Killaloe.
Read more about Saint Flannan (d.642)
Reflection
Saint Flannan's family expectations and obligations kept him from living the monastic lifestyle that he yearned for. Through prayer, he was able to live out his true vocation as a missionary monk. Do you have faith that God will help you on your path to live out your vocation and become filled with grace? Ask the Lord to guide your footsteps as you listen to his call and fulfill your vocation.
Prayer
Dear God, I praise and thank you for the grace you give to help me find my way to you. Please guide my footsteps every day so that I become righteous, godly, faithful, loving, patient, and gentle. (Taken from “Good News Day by Day: Bible Reflections for Teens.”)
