Another First as a Priest

The first few months of Priesthood were overwhelming because almost every day was filled with things I was doing for the first time. My first baptism, my first emergency, my first hospital visit, my first funeral, my first time present when someone dies, my first confession, and the list could go on. This “first” comes after some time of not experiencing a “first” as a priest.

My first confirmation was unique because it also involved welcoming the person into the Catholic faith. This man has been incarcerated for the last four years and for the last eight months, a parishioner (who is a permanent deacon candidate) has been graciously meeting with him weekly to give him instruction.

After receiving permission from the Bishop to perform the sacrament, Ron and I drove down to the prison in Cochran.

It was such a joy to welcome him into the faith. It was just the three of us at the multipurpose room while a Bible Study was held in the other blocked-off half of the room. The prison didn’t allow me to take wine, so I did a communion service.

This man, though in prison, experienced the freedom that comes with the grace of Jesus Christ by becoming part of His Church. He was so excited and joyful. It was a beautiful “first” to add to my treasury of experiences. Please pray for him, that God will continue to guide him in his journey and that God-willingly he will be released soon.