Tony Sampson

For the Love of God Tony Sampson

"Father O'Malley. Is that you?" A pleasant female voice called out behind me. Upon recognizing Sandra Johnson, my heart beat more quickly. I had first noticed Sandra while delivering Mass the second Sunday in my new parish. Each week since then, when I saw her, I tried to view her as only another soul to save. But the image of her ready smile and attractive features invaded my mind many times each day. And I found myself thinking of her as a beautiful woman. I knew my thoughts were inappropriate for a man in my profession. Nevertheless, I started to realize how enjoyable an attractive female companion could be. What could precipitate a priest with strong religious faith to have a sudden interest in a beautiful young woman? Does he forsake his calling in the face of such human temptation?