Tell us your vocation story.
A defining moment of my life was the death of my father when I was in the first grade. As difficult as a family death can be to grieve and work through, I remember the solace and refuge my family found in the Church. This love for the Church and her priests is something I’ve never lost, and this first prompted me to ponder priesthood in middle school and then again in high school. It wasn’t until I arrived at the University of Wisconsin-Madison however, that I was really pushed to go deeper into my faith. After joining the men’s Catholic fraternity and getting involved at St. Paul’s University Catholic Church, I was encouraged through the witness of countless leaders that holiness is possible and worth pursuing. This pursuit of holiness through daily prayer and regular participation in the sacraments has brought immense joy and peace in my life. This pursuit, coupled with the guidance of holy friends and priests led me to hear the call to apply to the seminary and pursue priesthood. Here I hope to grow stronger and more confident in the call Jesus has given me to follow Him.
What is the greatest challenge facing a man considering the seminary?
The greatest challenge facing a man considering the seminary today is learning to be still. Our world is extremely “loud.” With constant stimulation and communication in today’s world, it’s easy for men to fall into confusion, doubt, and frustration of who they are meant to be. It’s not until a man learns to be still and enter into silence that he’ll ever be able to come to know who he really is, a beloved child of God. Learning to quiet one’s heart and mind is the gateway to prayer and peace. It’s there that God breaks through and gives a man the call to follow Him.
What is your favorite Psalm verse and why?
Psalm 51:12 “A clean heart create for me, God; renew within me a steadfast spirit.”
I love this verse because it highlights God’s power to make us new each day, as well as a desire to receive his Holy Spirit which also renews us. I find great consolation in this verse and pray it often.
What are your favorite activities outside of the seminary?
I love cheering on the Badgers, Packers, Brewers, and Bucks.
I enjoy fishing, hiking, playing volleyball, and trivia.
Where do you like to go to pray?
Anywhere I can be in front of the Blessed Sacrament.
Where do you do your best studying?
Somewhere quiet, where I can be by myself without any distractions.
Which saint should people ask to intercede for your vocation?
St. Francis of Assisi, St. Maximillian Kolbe, and St. John Paul II.