Fr. Mike Got a Tattoo?

[@Knate1104]

Fr Mike, love the tat. I got praying hands and a rosary on my arm as a Lutheran. Over the next 10 years, so many people asked me if I was Catholic, it actually caused me to begin looking into it. I entered the Catholic Church in 2014 and have never looked back

[@ebereugwu1687]

Wow!

[@RafaMarcelo]

Welcome😇

[@josephinebcmpatrick9207]

No. You were deceived as a Lutheran. Now you are a Catholic, you are going to deceive other Catholics into having a tattoo. Satan works that way.

[@bethq1703]

Lovely story Knate1104. The tattoo led you home. Alma mater. 🙏📿

[@Six_Eight_Five]

That’s awesome 🙏🏼 God bless you.

[@EddieAlcantar]

I was listening with my eyes closed and when you said “I never ever want to take off Jesus” I felt this overwhelming smile take over ♥️ thank you for sharing Fr Mike

[@migdaliabishop444]

Yes. "Amen," I felt it too. It's amazing the love for Jesus.

[@jewlmixmedia]

That's is the sweetest thing ever

[@user-le8py8br9x]

Baptism puts on Jesus

[@aileentavernia5073]

Amen, I felt something inside me when I heard that statement. Peace

[@dambrosi62]

I had that exact reaction too.

[@stephanieangelo7873]

I love this Father Mike! My daughter was dating a Catholic from the UAE who had a cross tattooed in the same place as yours. He said it was so there was no doubt, regardless of where he was in the middle East, who he belonged to. Many in his family had been persecuted. It was such a powerful testimony.

[@neochris2]

Wow. Respect!

[@michaelgaston6296]

Wear a T-Shirt!!!

[@bpwisniewski]

You’re comparing your tattoo to the sacraments and struggling to do so. Really?

[@PB_324]

​@@michaelgaston6296 Lol.

[@carolpostable]

So understandable why he would want this! Hope he is safe.

[@robertcooney6908]

Great ink. The fact it has a strong meaning for you and all Catholics makes it worthwhile. Good job

[@shthomas1969]

Let us all pray for Fr. Mike and his ministry 🙏

[@matthewhartt5887]

Obviously, he needs it. Just shameful!!!!!

[@home17able]

Good reply, I had words in my head that should be kept in my head.

[@JohnB-dr8sk]

Yes, we definitely need to pray for Father Mike because he's spreading the AntiChrist spirit with this video. ANY tattoos are against God's law because our bodies are holy and NOT places to put graffiti on. Getting people used to tattoos is of the AntiChrist, because it's preparing people to get them comfortable with taking the Mark of the Beast. This Father is clearly mentally unhinged not only by these falsehoods, but by his flaky behavior. The Lord warned us that "Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them." Catholics MUST remember that there is a false pope (Francis) in charge of the Church and he has satanic disciples throughout TESTING our faith by spewing this kind of nonsense. DO NOT FALL FOR IT. Your body is a precious gift from God and is not meant to be marked up like some hapless train car coming out of LA.

[@Saiyan585]

​@@matthewhartt5887It is a ceremonial law for that specific time and people. It being abolished is crystal clear in the New Testament. If the old ceremonial law still needs to be followed, then men must not trim their beards, and we must not eat a medium rare steak. Even though Jesus Himself says it is not what a man puts in his mouth that defiles him but what comes out of his mouth (speech).

[@marradax]

​@@matthewhartt5887 oh come now, tell me what shame there is in having the permanence of Christ on your body?

[@kscheuerman5378]

Fr. Mike, my husband and I love you. We are 60, & enjoy these videos so much. We really think you are a very special Soul

[@breerosiey5056]

I have a Harry Potter tattoo on my forearm that I'm contemplating getting covered up/redesigned into a tattoo of our Blessed Mother. At one point I felt like Harry Potter "saved" me as a teenager because it allowed me to find friends who helped me feel less alone and less depressed, but now I've been saved by Jesus (and was actually baptized, confirmed, and received my first Eucharist on the Easter Vigil this year!). Part of that process was cultivating a relationship with Mary, which allowed me to give up most of my worldly vanity and embrace my calling as a daughter of Christ

[@ShelbyTurnerMusic]

Welcome home and congratulations! 🥰🌹

[@reneeharagsim4720]

Welcome home and God bless!

[@myteachermary7714]

pray to God and ask for His approval. What did Jesus say to the Adulterer woman who was not stoned because everyone is guilty of at least 1 sin? Go and sin no more. How does it apply to you?

[@annavickisantana]

Warms my heart to read a testimony like yours. Hope you stay strong in the path of Jesus Christ💖

[@elenaramirez7708]

Congrats! I'm proud of you

[@TheAyurvedic]

Fr. Mike. My husband was in that same shop last year and he got the Lord’s Prayer in Armenian tattooed over his heart. We are Armenian orthodox Christians. God bless you.

[@mimisabundantlife]

Me too. Ench bess es

[@kimthames2531]

@@TheAyurvedic pointless. It's meaningless because it's not a Christian action. The Lord did not tell you to go get tattoos. But he does want your heart to be pierced by His love

[@TheAyurvedic]

@@kimthames2531 I’m glad you can tell me what the aloes said to my husband. Phew! Thank goodness we have an interpreter.

[@adrieldavis]

@@TheAyurvedic the bible tells you not too...just like the church can give allowances for divorce even though it's unbiblical so they can lead you astray with this also

[@lucywilson76571]

That was a shock, Fr. Mike, but not nearly as shocking as when an elderly friend of mine got a tattoo on her wrist at the age of 89! Her reason made perfect sense. She was concerned that she might one day be in a nursing home with dementia, or something, and she wanted to be sure everyone knew she belonged to Jesus. And plus it gave her an opportunity to share her faith with the tattoo artist. It seems like your reasoning is along similar lines.

[@mayzeewest9915]

Love this! Btw, I am 60!

[@jk777212]

God bless her☦️✝️📿🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@Michelle-vg5zh]

I don't think Ive ever seen a priest's sleeve go down that far during Consecration. Even if it did, it's on the inside of his arm, visible to him only, not on his forehead.

[@wnygal]

@@Roman-Labrador I have no problem with tattoos but it could have been a little smaller and further up on his arm so it wouldn't show during the consecration.

[@FriendofGod78]

@@Roman-Labrador good point, i get your point, but I want to say I've seen Him do Mass recently and it wasn't noticeable as in it wasn't showing. I'm not trying to debate your point or disagree with it necessarily just sharing that there is a good chance maybe he was already aware of that and has taken the precaution to make sure at least during the celebration of the Eucharist it is not seen, and if that is not the case then maybe he will read your comment or someone else will bring it to his attention and its something that can be coverable so its not a distraction, i guess maybe he could have done it just a tad bit higher to your point. But yea good point but also a chance it may not be an issue. I guess time will tell.

[@annettehoerdeman7210]

I'm still in the "I don't want or need a tattoo" camp. While I agree some tattoos are sinful and others not, I am made in the image of God, so my whole body is already a "tattoo" of God in its form and function. Each time I receive the Eucharist- His blood flows through my veins. No condemnation or judgment... but just don't see Jesus needing to tatoo "Father" on His arm as an enhancement to the Our Father or Crucifixion.

[@DNoor78]

I was about to say my rosary before I saw this and like what!!. No judgements but I believe that whatever we do(good or bad), there is always a strong and probably good reason we give for it . But the question always is does that make it right? What about the sacramentals we wear? As a baptised Catholic, in faith, we have Jesus indelible in us and his resurrection merits never to be revoked as our bodies have become His temple. Tattoos doesn't prove it.

[@silviasombredero5232]

I totally agree.

[@passion777able]

I'm 76, Mexican and a lady. I agree with you completely. Tattoos are for drunken sailors. Mark Wahlberg had about 6 and had them all removed in front of his kids so they could see the pain it is to remove them. He does not agree on tattoos. Brave man for saying this.

[@thewishingacrewithteresawo9380]

“Need” a tattoo is never a thing. Unfortunately Father your “justification “ for a tattoo just gave many, many young people who aren’t so full of your righteous reasons the go ahead to mark up their beautiful bodies. There are spirits of bodily defamation that attach themselves to people who start to go down this slippery path. Let’s also not be so naive to think that just because it comes from some ancient tattoo shop that makes it good. Evil and good have existed side by side from the fall of man. Thinking a priest who has been teaching on the Old Testament for so long would recognize this one. What about all the Bible verses on, be in the world and not of the world? The New Testament also says that just because we are “free” to do all things, doesn’t mean we should. I will pray for you and now all the others you have led down this path because of your example. I am a mother of nine and a grandmother to five and now my job just got a whole lot harder. Jesus be praised now and forever!

[@passion777able]

@@thewishingacrewithteresawo9380 Dear friend - I am so glad so many of you are speaking up. You have every right to speak up with the family you have. It's NOT EASY in this modern world to follow the teachings of Our Lord. And this priest is just justifying his bad behavior to so many people. The BEST he could do now is stop rationalizing his behavior. Thank you for speaking up. Silvia Near Chicago.

[@thelegendarysupersaiyanbro9556]

Woah, that is something I didn't see coming.

[@barbarafenton1775]

I think he explained quite well why he did it.

[@manueltomatillos3348]

@@trumpwon8972 He is serving God? How is he not?

[@mariajuanesta3319]

@@trumpwon8972 Serving others has nothing to do with enjoying time off. What he does with his time off is his buisness. Guess what the Bible says about judging your neighbor...

[@meihui7767]

Priest should not talk about themselves? How do you spread God’s word without ever talking about yourself? St. Paul talked about himself in the Bible

[@freddybernabe9599]

Yeah he lost here

[@TOMReefer]

Really nice Fr. Mike, I took off Jesus for 15 years. I recently put him back on, and I pray I constantly that I never take him off again 🙏🏻😊

[@AppealToHeaven]

I have a full sleeve of religious, specifically Catholic, tattoos and totally appreciate the *not wanting to take Him off* thing. Feeling affirmed! Rock on, Father (and I'm 51 :)

[@Bestffdcj]

I really want to see it !!

[@andiebrodie3936]

Rock on Father????

[@hoosiercelticchic8253]

wish we could see it/them!!

[@AppealToHeaven]

I have covering my shoulder the Sorrowful Heart of the Blessed Mother with 7 swords and a sunburst behind it wrapping around the shoulder; below that, the Crown of Thorns encircling my arm above the bicep; on the underside of my arm, the Sacred Heart of Jesus; on the lower arm on the outside, St. Michael the Archangel with his sword and shield; around and in-between the negative spaces I have the colors of blue,, green,, and yellow stars from Our Lady of Guadalupe's mantle; and on my forearm Our Lady of Recovery tweaked just a bit with images of my parents who have passed away and a favorite niece, underneath Our Lady's mantle

[@Matias-op3nv]

Did I miss something? Since when did religious ink become the literal equivalent to Jesus?

[@Spaghedddy]

That’s such a beautiful analogy and thought behind the tattoo. I’ve been seriously debating getting a tattoo but I love how your unrelenting love or bond for Jesus is palpable through this beautiful.

[@diannasmith9842]

Fr. Mike, I got a tattoo on my 33 wedding anniversary. My husband got one on our third anniversary. So, our anniversary was coming up and I knew that he would love it, so I did it. It’s a cute teddy bear, in a sailor’s outfit. It also has his name on it. He loved it, and I loved him for loving it too. We have been married almost 53years, so it’s a little faded, but we both smile when we see it, or explain it to others. God has given us the grace to still b together after all these years, and we know how lucky we are. So, that’s my story, and I am sticking to it!

[@joanhaselman444]

What a beautiful marriage you are so Blessed!

[@cynthiacastro9532]

Thank you for sharing Father Mike. Praying for you always. You bring so many people to Jesus.

[@karmafile7685]

I was on a mission trip in Israel after my conversion to Protestantism (now a Catholic). I had tattoos from my youth, and was really ashamed of them and kept them covered the entire time I was abroad - long sleeves, even in 114 degree heat, doing physical labor, all day every day. Until one day, I just couldn't take the heat anymore and decided to take the risk, remove that long sleeved, outer layer, and let my skin be exposed. During my entire time on this trip, no one from Israel would really talk to me, or our group all that much. But after I removed that covering, a Muslim man (middle-aged gentleman with a family) I was working with, saw them, and, in the best English he could muster, complimented them; and from that moment on, he began to look after me on the work site like a daughter, and started speaking with me and sharing pictures of his family and opening up about his life (as much as he could with the language barrier). The whole purpose of our mission trip was to serve the community and to build friendly relationships with the people living there, so that, maybe one day, they would become more open to hearing what we had to say and receive the Gospel. The whole point was to make connections and to show love. God took what I was ashamed of and tried so desperately to hide, and turned it into something beautiful that opened the door and made a way for friendship between two unlikely individuals to bloom. God used my tattoos to open a door, and brought healing and joy where I had previously only felt shame. I will never, ever forget that. My reasons for getting the tattoos in the past may not have been God centered or right - but that doesn't mean God can't still use them to create connections, to start a conversation, or maybe make one seem more "approachable" rather than "strictly religious". Some people have a hard time opening up to people they are afraid might look down on them and judge them. Sometimes, displaying the fact you aren't perfect either or might have something in common with them, is all it takes to make someone feel more comfortable and trusting of you. Again, especially with my modern generation, having a tattoo as a religious person, can open a surprising amount of doors. But that's just been my experience. I hope you will find your experience falls along similar lines, Father. May God bless you and your efforts.

[@hwnwhaler1]

Good story and explanation. Bless you.

[@jennadills6270]

So beautiful, thank you for sharing this!

[@ICGodInU]

Beautiful

[@Hopeful2431]

Thank you sharing your story. I can see how your tattoos would open doors in unexpected places. ❤️

[@carolinadelcarmen]

Amen!!! Great story!!! 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@Hanna-se3vr]

I too have a Jerusalem cross tattooed on my arm. It opens a lot of conversations that wouldn’t happen normally (being able to talk about God, Jesus, Catholicism). I’m a very introverted person so evangelizing does not come easily for me, but the tattoo has been a great tool to open conversations I probably never would of had. Please don’t judge fr mike so harshly, tattoos of themselves are not evil - intent is key.

[@lorraineprescott7629]

my tat cross is beautiful, old wooden brown cross with a vine and green leaves going through it and a red rose in centre, yes it is a conversaton piece for sure, along with I like how Father says he never wants to remove Jesus, so many neegative comments here, this is quite sad, let people do what they want and the new testament does not say don't mark your body only the Old and even there it is how you interpret it, God Bless Fr. Mike Amen

[@kaboom9081]

If a church leader needs a tattoo to solidify his faith because he "never wants Jesus out of him" I would question his teachings. This is what's wrong with the catholic church, they need external validation for what they believe instead of living by faith alone. The Cross has become a fashion statement, even street gangs have tattoos of the Cross (that must mean they are solid Christians). Jesus said our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit and we were bought at a very high price so we need to honor them. Maybe we should tattoo the Word of God in our hearts by reading the Bible instead of our skins so we can actually share the gospel with people who are lost.

[@Hanna-se3vr]

@@kaboom9081 faith alone is a logical fallacy - and not theologically sound. You are falling into dualism which isn’t what God intended for humans. We are both spirit AND body - not spirit OR body. What God intends for us is - as seen in Revelation - is the perfect union of body AND spirit. So yes - there is a physical component to our faith because we are physical beings! If you say you have faith but without any physical manifestation of it (like good works, see the book of James) - then your faith is dead. It is a husk of what it could potentially be.

[@kaboom9081]

@@Hanna-se3vr God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth (John 4:24) The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing (John 6:63) For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith (Ephesians 2:8) Yes there must be outward evidence of our faith but its what the Bible calls the fruits of the Spirit, not of the flesh. I dont think a tattoo is a fruit of the Spirit but purely a man-centered desire that adds no value to my salvation. But catholics do needs their statues, rosaries, tattoos to visually solidify their faith which is not biblical. "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal (2 Corinthians 4:18) I don't judge you, I judge the catholic church for misleading so many people with false doctrines which Jesus saved me from.

[@Hanna-se3vr]

@@kaboom9081 Jesus is God (spirit) and human (flesh) - so are you saying his humanness has no meaning? Without his literal blood (physical) we wouldn’t be saved. There MUST be a physical component to faith for it to be valid. Don’t cherry pick verses either from the Bible without understanding the full meaning of the passages or the historical context. To disregard the physical realm as merely something to throw away has led to many other logical fallacies (see trans issues - people denying their physicality, because their “spirit” tells them otherwise). The physical realm is reality and so is the spiritual realm. If you throw out one for the other - you are ripe for heresy…

[@kathyroberts100]

I listened to you again tonight. Your talent of oration is not to be matched. Mass on Sunday and your eulogy are so uplifting. Kama 93 yr. old Cajun ex nun, educator, widow, who loves hearing and taking part in the Holy Sarifice of the Mass since I cannot go to Church. Would love to attend your Mass. Pray for me. Bon Soir Mon Pe

[@DrStrange1000]

God bless you❤✝️

[@phoenixrising323susanburnl8]

I think it's sooo beautiful ! I have a tattoo of the Star of David on my wrist & I love telling people who ask What it is & telling them about my faith. God bless you Fr.

[@shepherddog1199]

Sorry if this may seem like a foolish question, but why the Star of David?

[@jocelyneboutot5722]

I like it. I don't like tattoos, I wasn't sure about having a tattoo I thought it was wrong in our faith. But ...I like what you said, I like this tattoo and I love your reasoning. What a great way to say His name, out loud and to strangers..., His name is Jesus...yes I like it. Amen and God bless you Fr. Mike

[@jameshama]

Good morning friend how are you doing today

[@M110-w6s]

I am profoundly disappointed. "All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful; all things are lawful for me, but not all things edify." 1 Corinthians 10:23

[@theodorakfmcutler7355]

I absolutely love it Fr Mike! I have tats and am a fully practicing Catholic, and now I am very impressed that a priest has got one. I want to go to the Holy Land. Must have been so special. God bless you Fr Mike 🙏🏻

[@clq2461]

Actually there are many priests and religious brothers and sisters who have tattoos. They talk about this in their stories. The difference between Fr. Mike and these men and women is that they choose not brag about their tattoos.

[@nml5802]

I don’t think he’s bragging, he’s explaining careful discernment.

[@theodorakfmcutler7355]

I don't think he's bragging either. I think he's clearing something up for so many people who may have had an eventful youth, and also for those many people who are quick to judge people who have tattoos. Fr Mike is opening himself up to judgment as equally as further fandom. Tattoos are an interesting topic and if when I enter the afterlife (optimistically) I don't have them, I wouldn't recognize myself, but maybe that is generally true.

[@LeveTVV]

Great Tat Mike! I smiled when I heard you say you never wanna take off christ. I wear a Chi Rho tattoo on my heart for that reason. May God bless you and the work you have done

[@brigette4989]

Just when I think...”man, Fr. Mike is probably the coolest Priest” .. I see this! Wish I could meet him in real life haha. I feel like I know him after participating and almost finishing in Bible in a year. Day 352!! Thanks for everything you’ve done for me! You inspired me to get baptized and join a local church after running away for years and years. I’m finally home❤️❤️❤️

[@mikebingham976]

Welcome home Brigette !

[@alyce-kayruckelshaus1224]

Welcome home!

[@iBuzzinga]

Be ready for the waterworks on day 365

[@josephinebcmpatrick9207]

Yes, you are home. Does not mean Catholic priests should have a tattoo. JESUS LIVES within Catholics, they do not need a tattoo to remind them. Tattoos are defiling to a person's body.

[@deaconmn]

He is a priest in my Diocese, and yes, I know him. What you see here, is how he is in person. I love assisting at his masses, as he is so reverent at the time of consecration

[@veronicac6969]

Fr. Mike, I LOVE THE TATTOO and what it means to YOU. I am a 66 year old grandma and my 42 year old daughter has tats. Each and everyone has a special meaning to her. Much like your tat means to you. Continue to do you, and spread the word of your love of Jesus, your way!

[@letticiamariscal8612]

Father Mike , I got the same tattoo. I’m 66 years old and it was now or never . Always wanted one but didn’t know what I wanted till I saw yours. It’s meaning is so powerful and even my tattoo artist thought it was way cool . So thank you. ❤️🙏

[@girleyyrreverre8985]

same with me “i always wanted one but i don’t know what i wanted till i saw yours” Father Mike… thank you so much 😍

[@lindasands8263]

Tattoos are sun!!

[@lindasands8263]

Sin

[@Haziesmom2023]

I'm 72......never wanted one before I saw this video. Cool!

[@lortiz-baca7720]

@@lindasands8263😂

[@all4hisglory510]

Love it! God has used your tattoo to evangelize Christ even more. Thank you for sharing your story. God bless you, Father Mike. 😊

[@soniaalvarado8329]

I have a feeling of sadness after watching this video. God bless you father Mike.

[@d.a.tsun5104]

I do too. Somehow it reminds me not to 'idolize' a person, no matter how high they seem to be intellectually, spiritually, socially... People disappoint. Jesus does not.

[@LasPhoenix777]

Why?

[@rccyberwarrior2267]

@@LasPhoenix777 Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever.

[@JB-pp4nj]

Me too.

[@JB-pp4nj]

@@LasPhoenix777 I worry this is succumbing to the world. Do you think God wants us getting tattoos? Can we really improve on His art ? He created us. Also other priests like Fr Ripperger as I understand it, are very clear on this issue.

[@lohanthony]

God bless you Fr. Mike.

[@irmacordova6989]

Another way of worshipping Jesus

[@irmacordova6989]

Another way of worshipping our Lord Jesus Christ Amen!

[@chrissame]

I still don't really fully get it, I know what he's saying, but, at least for me, I don't need to see a physical reminder imprinted on my body? God created me as I am, I don't need to mark it. Tattooing is the type of thing that if you don't watch it can become more and more addictive and take the person away from seeing themselves as Christ sees them. Am I missing something?

[@RenaissancePesto]

Your not missing anything. He is a false preacher that we have been warned of by Jesus himself. He is very subtle and now thousands of fools are going to do the same thing and defile there body in the name of Christ.. god help them. He is actually proud of it... if he wasnt he would get it removed. Chris keep the good fight

[@JB-pp4nj]

See what Fr Rippergers says in his video on this. You are right. And doing this is wrong.

[@jm6456]

​@@RenaissancePesto are you protestant?

[@Jamesyeah]

You don't get why tattoo in old testament ar forbidden therr is a reason behind that​@@RenaissancePesto

[@danielgouge4639]

I've known Priests that smoke cigarettes. They aren't perfect they are people too.

[@keithscott142]

Your tattoo is wonderful, in that it represents your belief in Jesus and the passion you have for Him. I think it's great, well done and nicely thought out.

[@danielgouge4639]

I thought the 2nd commandment says to make no graven image of God or anything related. I don't care what people do. Just trying to understand. I have two tattoos that aren't religious but basic designs. I don't plan on getting anymore.

[@miguelzamores4415]

Honestly I was caught off guard by father’s tattoo. I never pictured him inking his pigmentation. I’m a firm believer you come into this world clean and hopefully leave this world with no ink!!

[@BlackPantherDMV]

It don't matter how you leave ink or no ink.... when the Lord comes, we'll be in our glorified bodies with him.

[@louishurr393]

This.

[@denisehopkins5026]

Father Mike--- I love it. As someone who is almost 50 as well, I love your honesty and truth.

[@marcicook3166]

Truly loved how you explained the reason behind that beautiful tattoo. Never take Jesus off! ❤️❤️

[@sebscreensit221]

Just found this channel randomly and he's awesome. I'm not even religious but his positivity is inspiring

[@samantha1247]

Thanks Fr Mike for this enlightening msg. This msg is encouraging. I finally got my tattoo last yr because i really want it since college and same as you i have been debating this inside my head and kept the photo in my cellphone . I am 30 and this will be my first and last and everyday i am reminded to renew my faith and to remember Jesus for everything he has given me.

[@RenaissancePesto]

He is a false preacher, do not get the tattoo. Pride , Vanity and on and on

[@asburyfox]

"never want to take off Jesus" That's what you received in Holy Orders. An indelible mark on your soul. You act in persona Christi. This reality should be so ingrained in a priest's priesthood and spirtuality, that they wouldn't need such a worldly physical symbol or reminder of it. As far as evangelization, that's what your clericals are for.

[@ImToastAlso]

Exactly!

[@stp3131]

Definitely.. Well said. We need to keep all priests in our prayers. Father, with all due respect, I am not against tattoos, but it sounds like you are reasoning with us. I am disappointed, but you are only human. 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@alvc22]

Couldn't agree more!!! Love this comment.

[@jayreilly976]

Fr. Mike, I designed a tattoo for myself over forty years ago, sometime between September 1973 and May 1975, when I was in my early twenties. I didn't get the tattoo until 2016, when I was 63 years old. It's a tattoo that honors a sister of mine who died in 1971, her unborn child who died because of her death, my dad who wrote a poem about Rosanne and Crispin, and my youngest son who drew the image of the tattoo based on my design. I love yours! If I were to get a second tattoo it would be like yours. By the bye, I'm a Deacon in the Church, having been ordained in 2008. God bless you!

[@eucabethmose5608]

You are amazing Fr. Mike an incredible gift to the church. I listen to you daily on the podcast! May God be glorified!

[@trishatrout4648]

I got my first tattoo for a very similar reason. When I consecrated myself to Mary I started wearing the chain bracelet as described by St. Louis de Montfort. After three years it broke and I’d already been debating a Totus Tuus tattoo for years and just thought, I want my consecration tattooed on me for life. I also met a nay sayer once who hated tattoos saying they represented slavery. As a voluntary slave of Mary I thought perfect! I got the chain bracelet tattoo with Totus Tuus written right below. Five years later I still love it so much. Reminds to love and honor Mary in good times and more importantly, when in bad. All I have to do is wake up and I can literally never forget Christ.

[@phyllismusells2613]

Fr Mike was totally honest and spoke from his heart about the tattoo. He had it done after years of prayer and careful consideration. It was a conscious decision not one made in a drunken stupor with friends daring him. He was in Jerusalem, a city he loves and went to a tattoo place that has meaning to the city. Fr mentioned the Old Testament law about marking the body, then He said Jesus came and some laws changed. For example, the Israelites were not to eat pork, but then Jesus came and now we can eat bacon. His Roman collar marks him as a priest but I have known of priests who take the collar off and to not be faithful to their promise. Fr.,as he said, never wants to take Jesus off. Fr. Mike was our priest all during the Pandemic. He said Mass for us and his homilies blessed us with wisdom. He read to us from the Bible and opened our eyes and hearts to God’s word. I have been a Catholic all my life, Fr renewed my faith and trust in God through some tough times. I see Fr. Mike as a blessing even with a tattoo. God bless him always.

[@novelacollection]

If that’s your argument being honest about your reasons doesn’t make something right even if Fr Mike is a Priest. Jesus did not go get a tattoo did he? and that’s who Fr Mike and every priest on earth is representing-Jesus. Getting tatts is such a trendy, worldly thing to do now not to mention it comes from false eastern religions that worship false gods demons and they use those tattooed symbols as a way to consecrate themselves to those false gods and to be protected by them. The Bible said no tattoos no markings and Jesus didn’t undo that teaching when he was on earth.

[@migdaliabishop444]

I agree. When I saw his tattoo, I was overwhelmed with wow! It meant something to him. I said, to myself if I doing a plimigrge Jerusalem

[@meihui7767]

A tattoo of the name of Jesus and a cross is not a sin

[@THE-WAY_THE-TRUTH_THE-LIFE.]

Jesus himself said that he did not come to abolish God's old law, but to fulfill it. I don't know where some people get this made up idea where they think they can not follow God's word just because Jesus came. Jesus never said that believers in the God of Israel could now eat pig just because The Son of Man has shown up, just like Jesus never said that believers in the God of Israel could now tattoo any marks upon themselves. If Jesus never directly changed something from the Old Testament, then that means it's because it wasn't meant to be changed. Not everything changed just because Jesus was sacrificed.

[@BAKER22-l4u]

I'm sorry, but the tatoo as a HUGE mistake

[@writer89]

You are good at rationalizing.

[@asailorswifeinct]

Your explanation is so beautiful! Jesus is permanently in our hearts and lives. The excitement in your voice is wonderful. God bless you.

[@ltcfont]

Father Mike, we had the opportunity to see you and shake hands while we were on pilgrimage in Israel recently. I have to say, you inspired me on the idea of your tattoo. Thanks for all the good things you do. God Bless.

[@josephinebcmpatrick9207]

Do not be inspired. Father Mike has lost his way to have a tattoo.

[@robh3007]

I've spent a lot of time lately watching old video footage from the 60's and 70's. Old film reels and whatnot. And one thing that's conspicuously noticeable about watching old footage of people from back in that time period is the lack of tattoos. It's not that they didn't have them back then. It used to be that pretty much the only people who had tattoos were bikers, sailors, and ex-cons--people you generally didn't want to mess around with. Those people got tattoos precisely because they didn't want to be like everybody else. Nowadays, they're everywhere. Everybody's got them, and this has slowly been building into a real pet peeve for me. It hit me one day when I was in line at the grocery store checkout: I was about the 5th person in line, and virtually everybody in front of me had one kind or another of some big, ugly budget tattoo on their calves, their thighs, their necks and arms. And suddenly from that point on, the whole thing started taking on a quality of absurdity in my mind. Actually, it's more than just absurdity at this point. it's becoming worn out, played out, cliche, overdone, banal and nauseatingly mainstream. I just wish we could take a breather with the tattoos or at least tap the brakes a little bit. It's amazing what peer pressure does to a society of otherwise alleged enlightened individuals. Now, people see it as a right of passage. A way to display their current "thing" or even virtue signal about some cause that animates them. At what point does it become idolatry? At no point? Now, someone wishing to be different from the crowd doesn't get a tattoo. Here's a biblical thought: When God expelled Adam and Eve from the garden, they were kicked out at the east gate. There was an eastward movement. When Cain killed his brother Abel, he went east into the land of Nod. When they built the tower of Babylon, those men were moving East toward Shinar. When Abraham and Lot stood on the hill getting ready to separate, Abraham told Lot, "You choose which way you want to go, I'll go the opposite way." Lot chose East, and eventually wound up in Sodom, and we all know the fate of that city. Abraham was the first one to go West. And what did God tell him? He told Abraham, "I'll give you everything you see: east, west, north and south. I'll give you ALL of it." Actually, Abraham had started his westward movement when God called him out of Ur of the Chaldeans. He trusted God, and it was credited to him as righteousness. Is the Christian willing to go west while the rest of the world treads all over each other trying to go east? That's the question.

[@sammyandoliver7522]

Well said Rob. You're so right. I totally agree.

[@selahchunem8447]

Yes I agree just look at some of the contemporary Christian music artist nowadays and the videos. SOME are covered even with different tattoos some might be somewhat spiritual in contents perhaps but many of them seem to be 0:04 similar to the world and esp males.I know the Bible says do not judge by the other man but what is in their hearts to paraphrase which only God knows for sure. We must judge by the heart. Some people might have gotten tattoos before coming to Christ. Real followers of Christ should not do anything that even resembles evil even those things that could make a weaker brother or sister fall into temptation and sin.

[@Alwaysthankful9]

I have 5 Catholic tattoos, all in the last year. (I'm 52) I love that they open up conversations that might not happen if I didn't have them. I get to talk about Jesus to people that might not have talked to me had I not had tattoos. Thank you Fr Mike! Love your tattoo!!

[@petramiranda5095]

How about wearing a sincere smile, a cross (necklace) or handing out holy cards to have a conversation with a stranger or anyone else about the love of Jesus. Just an idea you might try.

[@Alwaysthankful9]

I do those things, as I'm sure you do too? I have the Sacred Heart of Jesus on one shoulder and the Immaculate heart on the other. I shared above that I've found them to open conversations that wouldn't happen normally. For example, have butterflies with Phil. 4:4-9 on my arm. There's a waitress my daughter became friends with through a conversation about her butterfly tattoo that she got when her mom died recently. See? Conversations! Healing! Love! It's exciting! God bless you!

[@MinaLobo]

@@Alwaysthankful9 I'm sorry for anyone's attempt to shame you for your open heart. It's words like yours that bring others to the Lord. God bless you and yours. 💗

[@GR65330]

I got my first tattoo when i was 58 years old and now I have 7. My two favorites that I have are the praying hands wrapped in a rosary and the Sacred Heart.

[@AppealToHeaven]

Good for you! I get the same reactions from folks to my sleeve; I've had some interesting conversations with folks as a result. God bless you.

[@Blindfaith77713]

I LOVE this! So much so that I want to go get a small tattoo on my shoulder that declares I belong to Christ forever. I’m 51, no tattoos but I am so inspired to follow your lead. I never-EVER want to take off Jesus. God bless you father Mike. I always seem to smile when I watch one of your videos. ♥️🕊

[@theresaanderson742]

They say getting a tattoo is like eating potato chips. "You can't eat just one!" Lol! Nice tat Fr. Mike! BTW, I got my first tattoo last year (age 59) A single red rose for the Holy Mother. 🌹 It is my daily reminder that she said yes to God. ❤️

[@leala5919]

Please no more

[@tonyadieker4556]

Sodom was about rape, nothing to do with marriage of any kind. Levit, Corinth, and Timothy was translated wrong by Billy Graham. Its referring to pedophilia. Mathew 19:12 Eunuchs that are born that way are transgender. Eunuchs made that way by others were abused but it doesnt happen to everyone that was abused. Those that choose to live like Eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven are bisexual people that choose partners of the same sex but opposite in gender. Notice, God prefers for people to be in LGBT relationships. Male or female is determined by gender located in the brain. Billy Graham translated the bible wrong. Rapture is when God's true people shine like the sun right here on earth. It is not what most people think. Malachi 4:2-4. Read it. I am Elijah of Malachi 4:5-6. Anyone selling anything using the gospel or teaching the LIE of monetary tithing won't make it. Same sex marriage is not a sin. God prefers it. Again, male or female is determined by gender located in the brain. * Acts 3:22-23 says it will come to pass that anyone that fails to listen to me will be utterly destroyed from among the people. That means everyone has their own choice to make.

[@olgainestarzi2464]

This vídeo came to me right on time Father! During the spiritual exercises last february, I felt for the first time in my life I could get a tattoo... My principle and foundation: remain in His love

[@abigailhennessey6221]

I got my first tattoo at the same place! I got the image of the miraculous medal over my heart as a sign of my consecration to Jesus through Mary. It’s such a gift to be able to have my pilgrimage to Israel over my heart every day. I now have a second tattoo of hands holding up the Eucharist on my arm and I can’t wait to get more. My biggest advice is to never be in a rush to get a tattoo. Pray with it and let Jesus speak to your heart.

[@IreneMarshall-d8i]

You just crack me up! I like the meaning of your tatoo! It's always makes me happy to talk about Jesus in public. Thank you for sharing this.

[@LisaJuliaphotography]

I came across this while getting ready for today's BIAY podcast...i too have some ink with a lot of meaning. And i am way older than you are, Father. I think your reasoning is well expressed. Also, offered my prayers at Mass and Holy Hour for you today. May God bless you and keep you faithful to your Call all the days of your life...your LONG life ;-)

[@reginaromero2898]

My heart is Broken!!! Humility is your eternal tattoo....I send prayers and love!!

[@rebekahbrown9306]

Amen

[@WiltonGal]

I am almost 70 years old, and have never desired nor even liked tattoos, until watching this video just now. Fr. Mike, that is an absolutely beautiful tattoo, with a beautiful explanation, and you did it for all the right reasons. I doubt that I will ever get to Israel, but if I did, I would consider getting the same tattoo. I too, will always belong to Jesus, in heart, mind and soul, if not on my arm.

[@debrawaltz734]

I found the best way to help my children when they wanted a tattoo and I would not allow it. I told them to just get a henna tattoo. These are temporary and last about a month. My oldest got a henna tattoo . By time it wore off he was done with it and thanked me.

[@jenniferstanleykrawczyk4200]

@@debrawaltz734 that's wonderful parenting, good thinking, Mom!

[@topnic03]

Linda - I was 65 when I got my first one and then a second one dedicated to my deceased 35-year old son. Romans 8:18-23 RSVCE on my arm for my comfort about my beloved son. You can get one. Decide what you'd love for the rest of your life!

[@tonyadieker4556]

Sodom was about rape, nothing to do with marriage of any kind. Levit, Corinth, and Timothy was translated wrong by Billy Graham. Its referring to pedophilia. Mathew 19:12 Eunuchs that are born that way are transgender. Eunuchs made that way by others were abused but it doesnt happen to everyone that was abused. Those that choose to live like Eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven are bisexual people that choose partners of the same sex but opposite in gender. Notice, God prefers for people to be in LGBT relationships. Male or female is determined by gender located in the brain. Billy Graham translated the bible wrong. Rapture is when God's true people shine like the sun right here on earth. It is not what most people think. Malachi 4:2-4. Read it. I am Elijah of Malachi 4:5-6. Anyone selling anything using the gospel or teaching the LIE of monetary tithing won't make it. Same sex marriage is not a sin. God prefers it. Again, male or female is determined by gender located in the brain. * Acts 3:22-23 says it will come to pass that anyone that fails to listen to me will be utterly destroyed from among the people. That means everyone has their own choice to make.

[@mayapastrana4444]

Beautifully said!!!

[@patriciacasnovsky4209]

Thank you for sharing. I don't have a desire to get a tattoo, but if I were that would be what I would do. I loved how you said you can talk about Jesus to strangers just by talking about your tattoo. God bless you Fr. Mike. I love your podcasts.

[@monicateleckisobolewski5844]

Your honesty, your open heart is unique. Love this way

[@barbarab7378]

I’m not usually a fan of tattoos but I really like the look of yours, Father Mike. And I really love your explanation for why you got it. God bless!

[@charlesandmonica8242]

The Catholic Church teaches that when a man participates in priesthood after the Sacrament of Holy Orders, he acts in persona Christi Capitis, representing the person of Christ. Now, we all know by Leviticus 19:28, Jesus never had any tattoos nor cuttings on his body as to fulfill the will of the Father. So, Fr Mike now appears more different from the person Christ than before. It would seem obvious that getting a tattoo is an act of conforming with the world in contrast to our need to strive to become Holy. When I read the responses, most are of the "Rock On Father!" or "I got a tattoo too!" . I don't see any response to Fr. Mikes new tattoo bringing any soul closer to Jesus or any connection to picking up one's cross and following God's Will. What I see is more people now thinking of following Fr. Mike's worldly example to make themselves more acceptable to the world by being like the world. Just to add a little perspective, do you believe the Virgin Mary, Mother to all, Queen of Heaven, has a tattoo ?

[@petersholle823]

Mate, I'm not a fan of tattoos or have one but for you to think for one second that Fr Mike getting a tattoo has changed him or those he is evangelising is ridiculous. Really.

[@rosalindalozano233]

@@petersholle823 it's not ridiculous. Read the comments. He has confirmed a worldly act that desecrates the body.

[@davidgregory9871]

Your brave Charles and what you wrote was well put. I love Father Mike and still do but I am disappointed 😢

[@Saiyan585]

It is a ceremonial law for that specific time and people. It being abolished is crystal clear in the New Testament. If the old ceremonial law still needs to be followed, then men must not trim their beards, and we must not eat a medium rare steak. Even though Jesus Himself says it is not what a man puts in his mouth that defiles him but what comes out of his mouth (speech).

[@charlesandmonica8242]

@@Saiyan585 Okay, If you are troubled by Ceremonial Law, we can examine the writings of St Paul in the Epistles. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 "Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price." This doesn't seem to suggest St Paul is encouraging the new Christian to get cut or a flashy new tattoo. Fr. Mike's example is encouraging Catholics to make themselves more acceptable to the world by being like the world. I didn't accuse Fr. Mike of committing a sin by getting a tattoo. You assume too much. Rather, I pointed out as his vocation as a Priest, he represents Jesus to the Laity and the World. Jesus didn't have any tattoos. The point is Catholics are supposed to be in the World, but separate from the World. If tattoos are now blessed by the Vatican, then we should install drive through windows in all the Cathedrals like fast food restaurants. So,the Eucharist can now be served by a guy with a paper hat through a window without having to deal with the hassle of going to Mass every week and kneeling at the Communion Rail. Billions and billions served ... ( over thousands and thousands of years) Look at Fr Mike's behavior another more basic way. How does getting cut or getting a new tattoo please God ? In reference to 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 where God has placed the Holy Spirit into our bodies which are now temples and more significantly we are slaves to God where Jesus paid the price for our souls. So, would it please the Master to have us permanently write graffiti on the walls of the Temple? How does a Christian getting a tattoo demonstrate his Obedience to God?

[@user-jd6qg3sj9g]

I work in healthcare performing neurodiagnostic testing. I always wanted a tattoo until I had a patient who contracted Guillain Barre syndrome. She did not have a cold or the flu or any sickness that would have caused her to get GB. She did, however, recently get a tattoo which the doctors attributed to her getting GB. It changed my mind forever about getting a tattoo.

[@Jennifer-gr7hn]

Did she get a flu shot or any other "vaccine," since they are notorious for causing GBS! Critical care nurse here, and it's real.

[@novelacollection]

Also Hep C

[@eileendangelo6628]

Many also suffer from the ink being absorbed into the body. I strive to eat organic, natural foods. I don’t get how many inject themselves with these dyes.

[@plden2442]

It was the VxAxX

[@judybesta8042]

I love the tattoo & your reason for getting it. Absolutely outstanding. You rock! God Bless you.

[@pixydncer1]

I saw it on a Sunday Mass video not long ago and got really confused because I had seen your previous video on tattoos. I love it, though. I don’t have any tattoos and I’m not sure I’ll ever get one, but I love the idea of never being able to take off Jesus. ❤️

[@alexanderbrown2717]

1 corinthians 15 1-4 1 Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; 2 By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. 3 For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; 4 And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:

[@icarus6492]

To people who felt off watching this, for me this shows transparency. Which is something the church owes us…a lot.

[@RenaissancePesto]

Thats your point? now what.. This shows a decieved priest... his weakness is vanity and he took the bait

[@RenaissancePesto]

please be more specific..I am turned of by all of this.. the transparency that this particular catholic priest is flat out hypocrite.. his long story (excuse ) is straight devilish.

[@amypainter6371]

​@@RenaissancePesto I love Fr. Mike. but I do agree that tattoos are a no no. Difficult when you are trying to reach many young people.

[@kellywojcik7206]

@@RenaissancePesto he clearly said that the tattoo was not for vanity.

[@mignonnec815]

I love that you are so real, just like the rest of us. Always great to hear your perspective on things we think about and not sure who we can ask. Thank you Fr Mike!

[@RenaissancePesto]

I just love how he is an open hypocrite

[@AJBernard]

Thank you, Fr. Mike! This is brilliant and beautiful. Amen... never take off Jesus.

[@JohnR.T.B.]

I don't want to judge you Fr. Mike, but I think tattoos always undermine beauty of the body and never enhance it. Our spiritual circumcision in Christ is spiritual in our hearts.

[@PottedJam]

Cry

[@cheese6783]

@@PottedJam how charitable of you :)))

[@JohnR.T.B.]

@@PottedJam Uh huh

[@PottedJam]

@@cheese6783 anytime...

[@PottedJam]

@@JohnR.T.B. well, go on then...

[@cindyayvar2623]

Ohhh nooo!!! You feel for it. 😬 love and respect you Father Mike, our body is a temple, I don’t need a tattoo to remind me of my love for JESUS. He’s tattooed in our hearts don’t need a body drawing to remind me, make “ME” happy, or have his name always on me that I don’t want to take it off, God lives in me in my heart. With all love and respect. 🙏🏼

[@RenaissancePesto]

They all fell for it!! have you read all the comments defending him. I have not received any comment back from Mike..I will NOT call him father..what a disgrace. I have contacted other priest about this and there is no accountabilty.. noone gets back to me and how interesting that is because they put the vid up in the first place.

[@JB-pp4nj]

Exactly how I feel. To be honest, it makes me sad. Even our good shepherds are succumbing.

[@theadster2702]

@@JB-pp4nj Yep!!!! Fell for the foolishness. Just how the bible tells ...trust NO one...wolves in sheep clothing. Just another confirmation I did the right thing by leaving the catholic church. He could talk to anyone who would ask why does he wear that shirt. Jesus is to live supreme in our hearts...we do NOT need visual reminders. He even stumbled over his words....he knew this wrong not a good idea. lolol

[@kimthames2531]

Amen

[@kimthames2531]

​@@JB-pp4nj amen

[@CollegevilleJohnnie]

If it helps Father Mike, that’s great. I kinda feel like all our efforts to keep our kids from getting tats just went out the window.

[@nml5802]

Well we can just tell our kids they are not allowed this in our home, or a variety of things, until they are adults on their own. We may tell them Fr Mike is a responsible deep-thinking adult who made this decision after years of considering it. His adult decision does not condone the same for adolescents who are less mature in their thinking and living under parental rules.

[@kimhardin2515]

Agree Collegeville!

[@misom6207]

That is exactly how I feel. I definitely will not ask my three boys to watch your videos anymore. We need Catholic leaders to stand up against this culture of marking our God made bodies.

[@willheighton2057]

@@misom6207 explain what he did wrong tho

[@jorgenavarro4133]

How sad, because our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit

[@lilbmer1]

You’re not too old. I’m 57. 12 years Catholic school. I wish we had a marathoner, tattooed awesome priest when I was growing up. Please stick around for a long time. ❤

[@normamartinez7488]

Absolutely love the reason you got a tattoo. Always keeping all priests and religious in our prayers. You are an inspiration particularly to those who are seeking their true identity. God bless you! 📿🙏🏻❤

[@NCWMedic]

You know Father Mike, I have thought about getting a tattoo many times over the years. I am 54 years old and still do not have one. Once when I was a young man in the US Navy, I ended up walking in to a tattoo parlor, drunk with a couple of sailor friends of mine. I was determined that I was going to get an image of Popeye the Sailor Flexing on my arm. One of my friends stopped me. He pretty much pulled me out of the tattoo parlor and then told me "hey lets go back to the ship. You sober up get a good nights rest and if you still want to get that tatoo when you are sober. Go get it but, not now. Not while you are drunk" Good friend! I then had a re-version of my Catholic faith about a year after I got out of the Navy. Feeling so in love with Jesus and how he saved me I wanted to express that in any way possible. I thought alot about a tattoo. I still do. It is a very specific tattoo of an anotomically correct heart in black ink, no color, with a crown of thorns around it and of course some blood dripping from the thorns. I don't know if I ever will get that tattoo. You know the only thought that has stopped me is the thought that ....No matter how I adorn my body with religious symbols, tattoo, crucifix-neckless, religious t-shirt. These things can never reflect the truth in my soul. Father Mike, I like your tattoo. I am an artist and have an appreciation for expressions of art icluding tattoos. I respect expressions of faith but I am also always a bit skeptical when I see a person who seems a bit showy in terms of religious items especially a tattoo. I hope that doesn't seem too judgemental. Its actually somewhat the opposite. Its actually a hope that we all realize that only God can make us perfect inside and out.

[@joanhaselman444]

Thank you for sharing the story of your conversion. Please pray for me.

[@passion777able]

I made the comment tattoos are for drunken sailors and you just verified my comment. Thank you.

[@NCWMedic]

@@joanhaselman444 absolutely Joan! I pray for peace, joy, love, healing and that the light of Christ would shine through you. Please pray for me also.

[@NCWMedic]

@@passion777able unfortunately the steroetype is true, at least it seemed to be back when I was in. Although I met several Christian men who were at least trying to live their faith. The military, and back then, mostly a young Mens rough environment definately made living a virtuous life difficult. Sometimes very lonely. I had a small light in me from my Catholic upbringing but peer pressure was very powerful. I often gave in, I'm sorry to say. But God saves the mostly lowly when and how we least expect it. Through the saving work of Jesus Christ! Alleluia!

[@NCWMedic]

@BookDragon I, for the most part agree with you. I have a cross pendant necklace with a relic piece of the nativity stone in it. Its small and understated. I tend to wear it outside my T-shirt most of the time. If wearing a collared shirt it stays tucked under the shirt. I also have a larger silver crucifix with a gold corpus on it and a St. Benedict medal in the center. It is alot more showey. For special occasions, maybe actually serving at church/mass, events. Or when I feel a need to remind myself that particular day how I should conduct myself as man of God. Its usually under my shirt. Sometimes the cross relic that I wear stirs up conversation. Most of the time nobody notices. Its just an adornment or piece of jewlery to them, likely. I guess there is really no way for us to tell if the persons heart and soul is sincere or deceptive with such adornments. Hopefully the person wearing the religious jewlery has them blessed and uses them as a sacramental. Maybe some people consider a tattoo a sacramental. I don't know. Yes, be the lighthouse. We have the light of Christ thanks be to God!

[@pattymouton1539]

Love the tattoo and love the explanation even more. You rock it, Fr. Mike!!

[@joylynn1336]

I absolutely love this. I never want to take off the name of Jesus either. Love it!

[@findingyourself8310]

Honestly with all the respect and love for Fr.Mike. It feels to me as if he was going through something. I don’t judge him at all he is still Fr.Mike but that action to get a tattoo has got me surprised. The reason is because things as special as the name Jesus is a tattoo you were on your heart and mind. Instead of showing it through tattoo is better to show it how Jesus did which was through service to others.On the side note If you are going through something is ok too. We are humans as long as our hearts are tattooed with God, the season you are going through will pass.

[@jpt610]

I share your thoughts as well. Even though he said he has been wanting a tattoo all his life and waited years, it still feels like an impulsive move.

[@kimhardin2515]

Yes!

[@tessmac3512]

I thought the same thing that he was being tempted. He’s become a celebrity and must pray more for humility. Father Mike’s vestments speak loudly about who he follows and they must open up conversations about God, the Catholic faith, etc

[@jcgurl3773]

I agree 100%.

[@meihui7767]

I think Fr. Mike might be going through midlife crisis. Instead of getting a fancy sport car, he got a Jesus tattoo. On the other hand, our hearts are fickle, tattooing our hearts with God can sound like platitude.

[@alejandrinahs]

I love how the tattoo itself doesn’t excite Father Mike, but it’s meaning naturally incites the best of him.

[@Jennifer-gr7hn]

And if/when we are persecuted and stripped and ripped.....the tattoo will be like the sign above our Lord on the Cross...

[@otaku4Gaijin]

@@Jennifer-gr7hn 100%.

[@beckyrose5880]

"I want to never be able to take off Jesus" 🙌🏻 I have a Jesus tattoo and I'm the same way! It doesn't replace my joy and love for Him but augment it as a reminder and also evangelize when people ask me about it.

[@johndougherty9332]

Stupid and disappointing. Sad.

[@jameshama]

Good morning Becky how are you doing today

[@rcbourlock1149]

Awesome!! I got my 1st tattoos at age 52!! My son passed away and I got a few tattoos in his memory 🙏🏻♥️

[@BruceBlitzHasTits]

i am very sorry to hear that.

[@nicholasmargagliano1833]

My tattoos all have religious meaning. I’m glad now you got one and did this explanation. I was deep down always unsure whether i was in sin or not with having them, but knowing this is nice. God bless ya Fr.Mike

[@JuanMartinez-xl2oj]

I was Confirmed last Sunday, at the age of 37, and have been contemplating a first tattoo. Being quiet, I always used to wear tie-dyes, now I'm thinking of Agnus Dei on my inner forearm. I want to say something that will make others think, without using words, which have always escaped me.

[@cggalan3914]

I love that...Agnus Dei

[@margaretblessington4590]

Lamb of God

[@trumpwon8972]

People will privately think that the tattoo is ugly. That’s what people will be thinking. No will say that out loud. The tattoo might be “cool” but tattoos are objectively ugly.

[@josephinebcmpatrick9207]

Juan, do NOT have a tattoo. JESUS LIVES within you, do not defile your body. JESUS CREATED you just as you are.

[@josephinebcmpatrick9207]

@@trumpwon8972 You are right about President Trump. You are right about ugly tattoos. Stay as you are.

[@Willandpetesmom]

I love your tattoo. It’s symbolic of who you are and it fills you with great memories of Jerusalem. God shines through you!

[@Haziesmom2023]

I love this! I've never wanted a tatoo until now. I'm 72 and will probably never go to Jerusalem in this life, but this is appreciated. Thank You - but never say never!!!

[@richien1677]

I love how educated Father Mike is I lost my faith over 20 years ago and listing to father Mike makes me wanna have faith again.

[@catherinenewton3850]

Time to come home, brother.

[@virginiacharlotte7007]

One would have thought that your baptism and priestly vows and the oils of your ordination are your permanent and indelible mark upon your soul, Father Mike.

[@debbielawrence2494]

You are absolutely correct. Those permanent and indelible marks are not outwardly visible though. His tattoo is a visible outward sign of the invisible soul and an expression of his enduring love of the Lord.

[@virginiacharlotte7007]

@@debbielawrence2494 Maaaybeee so...?? It is also a distraction from the Eucharistic mass to the man himself, rather than the priest acting as a vessel 'in persona Christi' whenever it shows as he lifts his arms. I just do not like tattoos. They really do make me physically balk away from them and I cannot seem to stop that instinct.

[@evelynr1540]

@@virginiacharlotte7007 Yes, when he's up on that alter raising our Lord's body and blood, he will also see that mark. It's very disturbing. It's not anymore about our Lord, it's about Fr. Mike's tattoo. That's the focus now

[@christristan9738]

Never care of having tattoos much less knowing a Father of a church having one. My tattoo is scarred in my heart for Jesus.

[@HumanTorch-tc5op]

@@virginiacharlotte7007you do know your sinning by judging and gossiping about someone you don’t know right. If you’re not free from sin you can’t cast stones

[@leenasmitacounsellor161]

You are a child of God, with or without a tattoo. Thanks Fr Mike for the way you have motivated everyone and helped preach the Bible to everyone. God bless you.

[@elisatactuk5905]

Loved the tattoo and the passionate purpose and explanation of it! Thanks for sharing it with us ♥️

[@scicchiello]

Gosh… honestly… HONESTLY… every time I have the opportunity to listen to whichever message it is you are wanting to get across, it just gets better and better. I mean ANYTIME, I happen to stumble across a new video, or even the many times I come seeking an opinion or thought from you, I am ever and continually struck by your perspective. I truly value the direction you give me in my personal journey to and with Christ. I don’t think I have ever pressed play on a video of yours, when I don’t feel enlightened at its end. Thank you, Father Mike, not only for EVERY single thing you do, but also for WHY you do it. What a beautiful soul it is that you are, and I feel so very blessed to have you existing among us. I know I can’t speak alone when I say how comforting it is to know that you are here, fighting the good fight, and very much in our corner! And by the way, I absolutely LOVE the new ink!

[@codylola2010]

Perspective of wishy-washy???

[@scicchiello]

@@codylola2010 What could you possibly have meant by this?

[@HansHartman]

Father Mike, I was so moved when I went to Jerusalem. To walk in the footsteps of Jesus Christ! I was lucky enough to stay at Jerusalem University College, where a friend was getting his masters. He not only showed me the “Tour Group Areas”, but we went to the site where the Wedding Feast at Cana was. It has not been excavated or restored in any way. We went to the old steps to the temple, where our Lord would have walked, but there is no longer an entrance. So many places and so many wonderful and awesome places. I have a couple tattoos. Family crest and one in brail.

[@michaeljulien6856]

I am not an advocate for tattoos. I spent 22 years in the military and many of my friends had tattoos. While I never had a problem with them as individuals, I often wondered what was the attraction in having a permanent mark on the body by choice. My dad got a tattoo while he served during WWII. As a child, I was fascinated by the tall chip on his forearm with a "Sailor's Grave" scroll under it. However, when I joined the Navy years later I noticed that it was fading and a choice my father regretted. To add to my decision not to have a tattoo was several friends that were intent on "body tattoos" from the neck down to the ankles. I respected my buddies, but began to see them as a sideshow attraction. Further, how would a drawing of some sort be justified to my future wife and family for what get I came to think of as body graffiti? I couldn't see a reason to add artwork to the body that God had provided me in life. I feel that the faith I have in God should be reflected in my actions and words and not by a permanent symbol I selected from a catalog of artwork. I have worn a "5 way" medal around my neck since I was seventeen years old. I like the idea that it is something I wear everyday by choice and not because of a single choice I made over fifty years ago. How others express their devotion is their personal right, however, for me a tattoo is not how I want to show it.

[@daniellebuckner6964]

Michael I truly love and respect your comment. Not many in the world will stand for these points. You are coming to God with yourself as you are without adding something physically. You prove yourself in your faithful service by respect for the way he created your body. I am honestly shocked by this video and disappointed but nothing really surprises me anymore.

[@tonyadieker4556]

Sodom was about rape, nothing to do with marriage of any kind. Levit, Corinth, and Timothy was translated wrong by Billy Graham. Its referring to pedophilia. Mathew 19:12 Eunuchs that are born that way are transgender. Eunuchs made that way by others were abused but it doesnt happen to everyone that was abused. Those that choose to live like Eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven are bisexual people that choose partners of the same sex but opposite in gender. Notice, God prefers for people to be in LGBT relationships. Male or female is determined by gender located in the brain. Billy Graham translated the bible wrong. Rapture is when God's true people shine like the sun right here on earth. It is not what most people think. Malachi 4:2-4. Read it. I am Elijah of Malachi 4:5-6. Anyone selling anything using the gospel or teaching the LIE of monetary tithing won't make it. Same sex marriage is not a sin. God prefers it. Again, male or female is determined by gender located in the brain. * Acts 3:22-23 says it will come to pass that anyone that fails to listen to me will be utterly destroyed from among the people. That means everyone has their own choice to make.

[@pjsmith4369]

@@daniellebuckner6964 So all the tribes around the world who have used tattoos for centuries are “ satanic “? Or could it be a “ cultural “ thing?

[@danedmdan]

Great comment michael julien!! I feel the same. Many blessings to all of us and wisdom in abundance going forward.

[@danedmdan]

Great comment Danielle. I agree. I know what you mean. There are still some things that surprise me though. May God give us all the wisdom we can take in for those extremely young to those who are very old. Gods blessings and health.

[@BillHaga]

I am 66 and just got my 1st tattoo - the sacred heart of Jesus. My reasoning was much like yours. I have a devotion to the sacred heart and hope that it will present opportunities for me to share my love of Jesus

[@Dan-pt2tn]

Although well-intentioned. It goes against the Old Testament and Catholic tradition. Christian tattoos are even more sinful. I would have it removed.

[@JuanDiaz-ud7ji]

I think that our bodies, like Saint Paul said, are “temples of the Holy Spirit”, they are not ours, and so, we can not mark them or do harm to them. We must keep them clean inside and out, take good care of them and have them ready for the Resurrection of the dead.

[@evelynr1540]

Amen brother

[@lilianapalacio6210]

Amén 🙏

[@SusanM-ez7ky]

Your doing harm to them everytime you get excess sun exposure, eat sugar, expose yourself to environmental toxins, etc. Not sure why a tattoo is any different.

[@ssk2020ssk]

My cousin and I decided when I turn 18 we’ll both get a rosary tattoo on the left hand. It was the beginning of my faith journey. When my brother knew I was planning on getting a tattoo on the weekend! He told me I was not allowed, I told him it was only going to be a rosary tattoo! My brother replied you don’t need a tattoo to let people know you’re Christian, keep the Cross in your heart and people will know you belong to Christ. Even though I was mad, I never did anything wrong, I never drink, never partied, never went out with guys, the only thing I asked was for a rosary tattoo. Now, I’m 29 and I’m so thankful my brother was tough on me. Even though I’m a very quiet person, but God made me realized I’ve touched so many hearts without speaking a word. My transformation was from being told I looked like Kim Kardishian to people telling me I look like mother Therese because of my actions. I’ve learned the best life lesson, to never go after my desires and if there’s a debate about something, that means I shouldn’t do it. I try to follow God’s word in the Old and New Testament, because it is the same God! The criminal on the right didn’t need a tattoo to get in heaven, he just said “Lord, remember me when you come into your kingdom”. And The Lord Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.” May The Lord Jesus Christ grant us all His Kingdom. Amen 🙏✝️

[@andrewharchar891]

your brother is right!!!!

[@peekaboots01]

Wish someone would have stopped me. My father wisely preached against it. I wish I would have listened. I regret it.

[@tld8630]

Beautiful insight !..love the good thief comparison...Thankyou 🙏

[@lisajohnson5774]

And to think I was worried about getting one of the Bible in a Year T-shirts “ I’m praying for you, please pray for me” because of the comments I might get. You’ve made me braver to wear a Christian T-shirt in public.

[@kaymont]

I’ve been considering a cross over my heart for this reason! I don’t ever want there to be any doubt, any question, that I am a follower of Jesus! No matter what! I love your tattoo!

[@RenaissancePesto]

Interesting that you said "I love your tattoo" but not Jesus. you said what you said in the order you said it. resist the devil

[@physicstone]

I'm not generally a fan of tattoos, but I love the story behind yours. If I were to get one, it would be that or like conservative commentator, Matt Walsh's Rho Chi. He's also Catholic.

[@katherineday8409]

I love it! I never miss Matt Walsh’s DW or podcast show. I also watch Michael Knowles ( also Catholic) God bless

[@firstlast-mx3kl]

Agree with you! Also I like Matt Walsh's tattoo

[@veronicaflamenco]

I think you meant chi rho : )

[@christinahidalgo7201]

7:30 pm EST Father Mike, thank you for this video. I couldn’t help but smile the whole time and clap at the very end. I’ve always liked the Jerusalem cross and the meaning behind it. All six tattoos I have are meaningful and related to my faith & family. My first tattoo was Jesus on the cross with John 14:6 it was a time in my life approaching 40 years old that I knew my marriage was coming to an end and the one man in my life that I could always count on was Jesus. ❤ my second tattoo is Corinthians: Faith, Hope & Love. The others are meaningfu and carry a story of my healing, faith and family.

[@beayoutiful9686]

I DID THE EXACT SAME THING LIKE ABOUT TWO WEEKS AGO!! for the exact same reason! Only mine is a monstrance with IHS in the middle and underneath the monstrance it says "Lehem Happanim" in Hebrew. A lot of friends already asked me about it and I got to tell them the deep roots of the Eucharist. because it's not just something that Jesus started at the last supper. It goes waaaay back.

[@zerotoleranceforsataniceli4794]

But as a Christian, it is only the significance attached to Christ that counts. That is the only significance that brings you salvation. Did you ask the Lord first if it was ok with Him to get a tattoo ?

[@sethn1094]

@@zerotoleranceforsataniceli4794 What makes you think she doesn't know that? That comment was quite condescending.

[@zerotoleranceforsataniceli4794]

@@sethn1094 It wasn't condescending. It was meant to be informative. A Christian doesn't need to celebrate the roots of the Eucharist. The roots are irrelevant because of the new Covenant which replaced the old completely. The Jews were supposed to follow on into this Covenant. The reason I asked if she had asked the Lord, may have sounded harsh, but it is because I'm sure she didn't ask or didn't listen properly. I bear no malice, but the roots of tattoos are in the occult. I'm sure that she didn't know this. Fashion and trends have now hidden the dark side of this art. The artist can pray spells over people when they tattoo. You cannot guarantee the soul or intention of the artist, nor to whom their spiritual allegiance is to. I am careful who prays over me - any and all Christians, for I don't know spiritually if they are misled or deceived and may, without knowing or intention put a demon on me. I know this from experience. So how much more careful should we be with an artist ( usually a stranger) who specialises in an occult art form ? They can also unwittingly be guided and gifted by demons. "we die through ignorance..." God is infinitely supreme over all supernatural powers. He loves and forgives us. He cleanses our soul such that, it is as if we never had sinned. Our sins forgiven and forgotten.

[@sethn1094]

@@zerotoleranceforsataniceli4794 You didn't think she listened to God because you have labelled all tattoos categorically occult? Coptic Christians: Orthodox and Catholic have been getting Christian symbols tattooed for centuries in Jerusalem after their pilgrimages. Even if tattoos began in an occult way that does not mean that they cannot be baptised or purified to be compatible with Christian life. The pentacle, and the cross of St Peter have all in time begun to have occult associations but that does not mean that they cannot be Christian.

[@masik7591]

@@zerotoleranceforsataniceli4794 That is so interesting! Do you think Father Mike was wrong to get the tattoo then? Or do you think his reasoning makes sense/is an exception? P.S. nice username but by why are the S and E capital? The evil elites don't deserve respect or capitalization in my humble opinion lol

[@Gracepatalano]

Father Mike, I also went to Jerusalem in 2020 and got the cross of Jerusalem tattooed on my wrist in the same tattoo parlor. God bless you always!!!

[@RenaissancePesto]

Women you are a fool. You need a man in you life to give you better guidence

[@LadyKayye]

Well, for someone who has well over 30 pieces and loves Jesus, this is comforting. I am happy that you have a wonderful story behind yours. I was always taught that tattoos were aligned with the sin of vanity. Who else knew Fr. Mike was “almost 50?” Lol... God Bless you Fr. Mike 🤗🙏

[@julieagarcia6259]

IKR?!

[@mike-cc3dd]

Just because they arent bad for you, doesn't mean they arent cringe. Turning your body into a jr high notebook is.... kinda lame.

[@LoantakaBrook]

Fr Mike is having a midlife crisis

[@JesusChurchBible]

Wrong, Wrong, Wrong! Father Mike what are you doing??? Father Gabriele Amorth stated that in exorcisms the demon repeatedly confesses, by the mouth of the possessed, that anyone who gets tattooed is his anointed and that regardless of what he decides to tattoo, his influence in the life of the that person it's real and it continues. Tattoo is an actual indirect consecration to satan. Those who get tattoos risk facing unspeakable pain, dark and depressed moments, as well as bills and evils themselves. The tattooed then allows the devil to have his affect on him. Many problems such as depression, alcoholism, drugs and more often manifest right after getting tattooed. This speech may also be taken lightly by many and unfortunately even by many priests, but the real contradiction is that Anton La Vey founder of the Church of Satan in America publicly confesses (in the book Modern Primitives) when I said it, admitting that behind every tattoo (it’s a little flower) or a dragon) there is satanism on point. A priest of Satan is obliged to consecrate himself with a tattoo. When you tattoo angels, saints' faces, images of Jesus or Mary instead, you offend God twice. It's not a speech to laugh about. In many exorcisms, the conscious possessed during the ritual have claimed that they felt a tremendous fire burning right across the skin they had been tattooed on. You only need a tattoo to risk having possession disorders, as shown by the numerous cases studied by exorcists. Tribal tattoos contain 666, the number of the Antichrist. So if you decide to get a tattoo, remember that while man looks at the outward appearance, God looks at the heart. My advice is not to get any tattoo and not to have it removed if already done, but to go to an exorcist priest, available in the diocese you belong to, and get your tattooed skin blessed. Now nobody can say, "I didn't know that." Faith in God is not a game to play with and satan takes advantage of our ignorance to work on us. God through the Bible is very clear about this point too: “my people perish for lack of knowledge”. (Which means; 4-6). Father Amorth is much more knowledgeable about tattoos than Father Mike. Pleas pray for father Mike as he is falsely leading you all regarding how getting a tattoo is no big deal. IT IS! FATHER MIKE.... WHY WOULD YOU DO THIS?!?!?

[@giovannimorado3941]

Followed his own advice, this guy is no being led by the spirit. Going to pray for you brother 🙏🏽

[@lorellalesavage8588]

I have always loved your views, input, advice. PERSONALLY, Not a fan of tattoos. The wet and stick kinds are fun. But not the needles and ink. Going to sound old fashioned, but I feel as though if the world was not into tatoos right now and everybody was not getting one, would you have? I feel it is a culture that is taking us away from simplicity and The Word of God, simply, no t shirts, no tatoos, no nothing, just living a virtuous life for God. People can see Him in our works and how we live. Still love you, all my friends and relatives who have tattos. But since you asked what I think..there is it... past 50 , just a bit, so Im almost dead too!🤣

[@joanhaselman444]

Remember that the place he went to has been doing HOLY tattoos for 700 years.

[@0329Christine]

I predict the next generation will not want tattoos because “all the old people have them.”

[@shirleymarie5070]

What else do you need only faith and love 💕 in Jesus Christ our lord and saviour Amen 🙏

[@paulabard658]

I’m 76 and got my one and only tattoo about a year ago. Mine is on my right wrist where I can see it all day. It is a small cross with the letters AOA above it. Very simple. The letters stand for Ask, Offer, Accept. My inspiration was St. Francis de Sales who taught us to pray all day long by asking the Lord to be with us in whatever we are doing, to offer that act up for the sake of His sorrowful Passion, and to accept what the Lord sends in the way of blessings. This little tat has been a great reminder to me to pray often during the day and to remember God is always present with me. I do get lots of questions about it, and it’s a blessing to share St. Francis’ words with so many people.