Tell us your vocation story.
This whole experience of discerning the seminary has been life-altering for me. I would never have guessed that I would be applying for the seminary in a million years. I’m going to be completely honest, the thought of entering seminary never crossed my mind or came with great enjoyment. Well, that is not entirely true. When I was little, I wanted to become a priest solely because I did not like girls. That did change pretty quickly, and so did the thought of the priesthood. The fire was reignited when I went on the silent retreat at the seminary last December. I was going through tough internal battles during that time, which were mainly centered around my unknowingness of my vocation. I was struggling with whether I should continue my football career or give that up and pursue a life in the business world. I felt like I had to keep playing so I wouldn’t let my family down or be looked upon as lesser for “giving up”. It was a very tough time in my life because I knew I was called for greatness, but didn’t know where to go or what to do. The silent retreat allowed me to find peace. Even though the priesthood still did not look like the most appealing option, I did learn that God speaks to us through peace and time. God wants the same things we want when we are in a state of grace. The dreams and goals we have come from Him. We are here because God has big plans in store for us. We are here to show God’s glory by living up to our true potential. God is not our opponent, he is our friend who wants the best for us. He will not allow us to travel down a road of sin and despair if that is where our “dream” may take us, but instead will lead us to our purpose, bringing peace and joy. Maybe the peace and joy I found in the chapel at the seminary was a foreshadowing of my purpose and where I am called to be. At the end of the day, I want to use my talents to the fullest potential, positively change the lives of countless people, and help as many souls get to Heaven as possible. That is what I want, and if God is calling me to be a priest to fulfill those desires, then so be it. I trust God and will do whatever it takes to have Him say, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21). The second real eye-opening experience regarding entering the seminary happened in Ave Maria during morning mass. I decided to attend morning mass after my football season was finished because I couldn’t really find an excuse not to go, and I wanted to grow stronger spiritually. After one particular morning mass, Fr. Cessario took me aside and asked why I looked so down. Now, I have never met this priest in my life, and was very taken aback when he asked me that question. I gave him a generic answer about not knowing what to do after college and not being sure about my vocation or purpose. He replied and asked if I had ever considered joining the seminary. I figured that he was trying to get a commission check from this sale, and replied by saying I have a girlfriend and I don’t think the priesthood is for me. He then said that we need more people like you to become priests and left. I was very upset after hearing this because this was the very last thing I wanted to think about, and it was for sure the last thing I wanted to do. I told my close friend about the weird encounter I had with Fr. Cessario, and he encouraged me to just think about it and join him for morning mass the following day. The next morning, we went to mass, and sure enough, there was Fr. Cessario at the altar. I distinctly remember Fr. Cessario, before he gave the final blessing, deliberately looked at me and said, “If any of you are even remotely thinking about the priesthood, please come talk to me… even if you have a girlfriend.” I was completely in shock while my friend next to me started laughing, knowing darn well there was no one else in that chapel he possibly could have been talking to. From that moment on, I decided to take my prayer life more seriously. I went to morning mass regularly and prayed the rosary every day. I decided to stop fighting God and chose to trust Him instead. I let Jesus take the wheel, even if it seemed like He didn’t know how to drive. It took a while after that moment, but through time, I was able to find peace with applying for the seminary. It is a very different vocation than what I originally thought I would be doing, but I have a tremendous sense of peace joining. I still don't know if I am supposed to be a priest or not, but I know I am supposed to join the seminary. Regardless of what happens, I know joining the seminary is the right path for me, and He is giving me peace to justify it.
What is the greatest challenge facing a man considering the seminary?
The biggest challenge for a man coinsidering seminary is giving up control of your life and trusting in God's plan for you. We tend to think that we know our selves which is why giving up control is so hard, however, this is so false because God knows us more than we will ever come to know ourselves. The answer is surrendering to His Will and only then will you receive satisfaction and joy.
What is your favorite Psalm verse and why?
Psalm 22 is my favorite verse. The first time is read this verse it blew my mind. This verse is a direct forestatement to Jesus' Crucifixion, which is why Jesus said on the cross, "My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?" The Psalm later says "They have pierced my hands and my feet" and "they divide my garments among them;for my clothing they cast lots." Absolutely mind blowing for those who still don't believe Christ is the Savior and God.
What are your favorite activities outside of the seminary?
Outside of the seminary I love to go paintballing, go out with friends, watch Instagram Reels (now in good moderation), go to the movies, travel, and hunt for pythons in the Everglades.
Where do you like to go pray?
I like to pray in a beautiful church, chapel, or outside. ( The Basilica of St. Josephat's is definitely one of my favorite place for sure).
Where do you do your best studying?
My best studying is done either in my room (quiet or listening to study music) or in the library.
Which saint should people ask to intercede for your vocation?
Literally any because I need it. Specifically, however, you can ask for the intercession of either St. Therese of Lisieux or St. John Bosco.