Father Ike has been a staple in my family and a good shepherd keeping me in line and reminding me of the greatness that lies in each one of us, which God put there through His grace.
For this, I would like to share with you all one of his many countless homilies to help commemorate this joyous occasion of his Sacerdotal Jubilee.
It happened one evening while my wife and our uncle tried to catch the “Last Chance Mass” at 6 p.m. at the cathedral. We came and sure enough, it was Father Ike who served. He explained in no uncertain terms that family is a sacred bond. That when you call somebody family, it means you care for them regardless of shortcomings. He explained that the word “family” actually stands for something.
I was of the opinion that family are those whom you share a bloodline with.
Father Ike began with the letter “F” and stated that it stands for Forget. Hmmm, where is he going with this? I thought. Then he said “About,” then “ME,” “Because”… “I LOVE YOU.”
It hit me like a coconut falling off a tree. At first, I was baffled, but instantly like a light shining through my darkness, I UNDERSTOOD! Those people whom you would die for are your family. That made me realize the full potential of the word, and I have changed for the better ever since that fateful evening. My family has enriched our lives with this understanding of “Family.”
So Father Ike, celebrate with vigor. At least one or two of your sheep have learned a great deal from just one of your homilies. I thank you for your spiritual guidance and your continued support for the people of God here in our wonderful CNMI.
THOMAS M. THORNBURGH
Gualo Rai, Saipan
