A parishioner recently asked if I would share with him about my family which I gladly did.  After he heard me say I have five brothers and three sisters, he quickly inquired as to whether any of my brothers were in the priesthood.  My answer was no, and I shared with him the fact that I had a younger brother, Kenny, who went to seminary right out of high school, and remained there for three years.  After that he finished his senior year at the University of Dallas, went to law school, passed the bar the first time he took it and has practiced law now for almost 30 years, including many years as an assistant United States attorney here in Arkiansas.  While part of me wisheds he had finished his seminary formation and been ordained, I give thanks that he chose a profession and position to serve the public good in prosecuting people who have committed serious crimes in this part of the country. 

I am also proud of my other siblings who have all been successful in their chosen profession and for choosing professions that help people in various ways.  Among my siblings, there is a food service manager, a physician, a speech pathologist, two teachers, a lawyer, an accountant and a registered nurse.  As a new school year has begun, I ask all of us to pray that more of our young people will be inspired toward professions and vocations that help people with Christ-like love and concern.  Also, let us pray for our parents, teachers and professors, that their influence and encouragement will help our students to be formed in healthy ways and thereby create a world of people who are focused on others in the name of Jesus Christ.