A husband and wife were unable to have children. After consulting everyone who would listen to their problem, they consulted their family priest. “My children,” the priest began, “the Lord will listen to your prayers, and I am sure you will be blessed with children shortly. In fact, I am planning a stay in Rome, and while I am visiting the Vatican, I will light a candle for you.”
“Thank you, Father, thank you!” said the couple. Before leaving, the priest turned and said, “My stay in Rome will be for quite some time—15 years. When I return, I will be sure to pay you a visit.”
So, 15 years came and went, and the priest returned to the United States. While resting on his porch one mid-summer morning, he remembered the promise of paying a visit that he had made 15 years ago. So he made his way to the couple’s home, and upon arriving at the residence of the couple who’d sought his counsel years earlier, he rang the doorbell. Sounds of crying and screaming children filled the air! Overjoyed by the thought that their prayers had been answered, he entered the house. More than a dozen children filled the house from top to bottom! In the midst of all the chaos, stood the wife.
“My dear,” the priest said, “your prayers have been answered! Where is your husband? I wish to congratulate him on your miracle!”
“He just left for Rome,” she said.
“Rome? Why did he go to Rome?” asked the priest.
“To blow that candle out” came the harried reply.
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