Gabriel Flores

Discipleship I

Parish: Archdiocese of Milwaukee

Seminary: Saint Francis de Sales

Birthday: December 15

Intercessor: St. Peter

Tell us your vocation story:

I'm originally from Venezuela. I was raised in a Catholic family.  When I was a child, I used to go to  church occasionally, but  I never thought about the priesthood. When I turned 19, I moved in with my uncle, who is a priest. I got involved in a youth group in my parish which helped me to figure out my vocation.

I started going to several retreats in my home parish, but I was not completely sure about my vocation. I was waiting for a sign to be sure. In 2020, in the middle of the pandemic, I had a lot of time to pray and ponder what the Lord wanted for me. Finally, I decided to try joining the seminary because I thought the Lord wanted me to follow his will.

What is the greatest challenge facing a man considering the seminary?

The most difficult challenge for me is to consider myself worthy to be a priest. The priest is called as a result of God's mercy. Most of the time, it is easier to avoid the call because it is a huge responsibility. The easiest way to overcome that fear is recognizing that this call is God's will.

What is your favorite Psalm verse and why?

“Speak, your servant is listening." Samuel’s words are really important to me because, like me, Samuel suffered to understand God's will in his life, but he was willing to listen and obey.

What are your favorite activities outside of the seminary?

I like to watch soccer or just watch series on netflix.

Where do you like to go to pray?

My favorite place to pray is Saint Francis de Sales Chapel.

Where do you do your best studying?

I like quiet places. My room is my favorite one.

Which saint should people ask to intercede for your vocation?

Saint Peter.