From the Pastor

WEEKLY MESSAGE FROM FATHER MIKE…

I remember Jason from my seminary days back in 1976. He was studying for another diocese. Jason had grown up Protestant, but after a profound religious experience with a local Catholic youth group, he decided to become Catholic.

His parents were strongly opposed to the idea. He had been raised in a conservative Christian home where Catholics were looked down upon. Rather than create conflict at home, Jason waited until he was in college before entering the Roman Catholic Church.

When he finally became Catholic, his parents disowned him. They told him he was no longer their son and that he would end up in hell. Despite the pain, Jason remained steadfast in his faith and eventually entered the seminary, where we met.

I admired his courage, but I also felt sorry for him. He gave up his family—or, as some would say, his family gave up on him—for his newfound faith. In time, Jason was ordained a priest for another diocese.

Years later, I learned that he and his parents had reconciled. I suspect the Holy Spirit had something to do with that reunion.

In this weekend's Gospel, Jesus challenges us to place Him above everything else. He tells us that if we are to be His disciples, God must come first in our lives. I am not asking you to give up your family. Rather, I am asking: Is God truly number one in your life?

Jason made that choice. Jesus made that choice.

How about you?

FATHER MIKE’S DAILY MESSAGE

Every morning Father Mike sends out a spiritual message to everyone who signs up to receive it. Sometimes Father’s message inspires us, teaches us, consoles us or, more often, challenges us to put our faith into action. You can receive Father’s message by either email or text message. If you would like to receive Father's message, call the Immaculate Conception parish office at 570-636-3035 and give Janet your email address or your cell phone number. It’s a great way to start your morning!