He paused, and said, "Well, I'm not much into self-promotion. I feel that I simply do what my calling wants me to do. There are many people -- soldiers, teachers, firefighters, parents, social workers and others -- who, without praise, make the kind of sacrifice or contribution that I try to do every day."
What, I asked, if I write without using your name, your school or your city? You certainly inspire me, and I think your story can inspire others. The priest said he intended to go on vacation next month, and during that time would consider my request. But, he added, "Surely you can find more worthy people to write about."
I told him that any other answer would have surprised me, and his humility and unwillingness to consider himself a hero makes him all the more compelling a subject. He laughed and said, "Again, this sounds flattering, but undeservedly so. I like what I do and feel morally obligated to do that which God wishes me to do. Why is that remarkable? Why is that heroic?"
You see, he continued, God called me to do this. I saw a need and feel a moral and spiritual obligation to fulfill it. I don't consider this extraordinary. I'm simply doing what God expects me do. I don't do it for personal attention or for self-aggrandizement, but for the glory of God.
Well, I didn't wait for the pastor to return from vacation. I wrote about him anyway. I hope God will forgive me. As for the pastor, that is another matter.