Tell us your vocation story.
Throughout grade school, I had always felt that I wanted to be a priest. I always served at my home parish every weekend and was very interested in learning everything. My parish priest was always telling me that I would make a great priest and that he was convinced I would become one. Throughout my first two years of high school, I tried my hardest to push the call out of my mind, but it never seemed to work out. After my sophomore year of high school, my family moved to Wisconsin from Indiana, and I made the decision that I should take my faith seriously. I started to go to adoration, confession, and mass a few times each week. After my first "Come and See" weekend at IHM Seminary, my junior year of high school, I felt that the seminary was the next place for my discernment. I chose to give myself to God and not run away from the call any longer. I applied to the seminary and have not had any regrets in answering "yes" to God.
What is the greatest challenge facing a man considering the seminary?
The greatest challenge facing a man today who is considering the seminary is the fear that the priesthood is not for you. Seminary is not only a place of deepening your relationship with Christ, but also a place of discernment. We can only go so far in our discernment before requiring the help of the church. I have yet to hear from someone who entered seminary and discerned that they had any regrets from attending a place of discernment and growth. Men need to be willing to take the next step, which the church so graciously offers.
What is your favorite Psalm verse and why?
Psalm 15:8 "I set the Lord always in my sight; for he is at my right hand, that I be not moved" (DRA). The Lord is my main reason for being here, and this quote reminds me that I need to keep Him at the center of all that I do. When I put all my trust in God, I am ready to give myself fully to Him, which is what we are called to do: to give our lives to Christ.
What are your favorite activities outside of the seminary?
Outside of the seminary, I like to do all things sports-related, spend time outdoors, and watch movies.
Where do you like to go pray?
I like to go to any dark church or chapel that is quiet and empty. I feel that I can truly listen to the voice of God there.
Where do you do your best studying?
I do my best studying in any other seminarian's room while they are in it or in open spaces with other people also studying.
Which saint should people ask to intercede for your vocation?
Pope Saint John Paul II, Saint Martin of Tours.