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FATHER MYCHAL JUDGE, OFM 
"You know what I want for Christmas? You know what I really want? "Stay out of tomorrow. God hasn't created it yet." Have you ever felt as if you've known someone you've never met? Many people were drawn to the story of the Franciscan serving as a chaplain for the FDNY on that fateful New York City morning in September 2001. Journalists told the story of how Father Mike was seen running into One World Trade Center as people were running out and that he later died while giving last rites to a firefighter. Pictures of the jovial Irish priest were telecast around the world along with the almost unbearable image of his body being reverently carried from the wreckage of 9-11, which reporters instantly dubbed "a modern Pietà". Later, more and more of Fr Mike's story came out, including the fact that he was a recovering alchoholic of 23 years and a champion of the underdogs in Christianity - including AIDS/HIV patients. He was described as "earthy", "streetwise", "unconventional", and "the busiest man in town". Most of all, he is remembered as "everybody's priest". Fr Mike believed in personal prayer, and, in the style of St Francis, he was the author of his own prayer which he said daily. It is now carried in pockets, purses, and briefcases around the world, yet there are still people who have never heard this simple, eloquent petition:
This joy-filled Irish-American lived a life of service and a life of unconditional love. Many people are now advancing the cause for his canonisation, despite its rumoured unpopularity with church heirachy. I would urge you to learn more about this wonderful human being. You can read his obituary, see more pictures, or follow any of the links below to read about his life: Saint Mychal Judge exclusive site devoted to Fr Judge
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