04/05/2025
Father Michael's Gift
Father Michael had served as a Catholic priest in the small village of St. Mary's for over 20 years. He was known for his kindness, compassion, and unwavering dedication to his community.
One day, a young boy named John approached Father Michael, struggling with his faith. John had lost his parents in a tragic accident and felt lost and alone.
Father Michael listened attentively, offering words of comfort and guidance. He shared his own experiences of doubt and struggle, and John's eyes widened with surprise.
"You're a priest, Father. You shouldn't have doubts," John said.
Father Michael smiled. "Faith is a journey, my son. We all have doubts, but it's how we respond that matters."
Moved by John's story, Father Michael gave him a small, worn-out rosary that had belonged to his own mother. "This was my mother's," he said. "She prayed with it every day. Now, I want you to have it."
John was touched by the gift. He began to pray with the rosary, finding solace in its familiar rhythm. Slowly, his faith began to heal.
Years later, John returned to St. Mary's as a priest himself, inspired by Father Michael's example. He never forgot the gift of the rosary and the lessons he learned from Father Michael.