Age: 25
Home Parish: St. Margaret of Cortona, Rotterdam Jct., NY
Seminary / Stage of Study: St. Isaac Jogues House of Discernment; Second Year Pre-Theology
Education: B.S. History/Political Science, The College of St. Rose
Work Experience: Federal Emergency Management Agency: Public Assistance-Environmental Specialist; Scotia-Glenville Schools: Substitute Teacher.
Interests: Vegetable gardening, history, kayaking, cross country skiing, and music.
Vocation Story: As far back as I can remember the thought of becoming a priest was forever tucked away in my head. By the time I entered college my faith was weak, and if the call was there, I certainly did not pay much attention to it. Fear of commitment and interest in women prevented me from taking it seriously despite the subtle but persistent signs pointing towards the priesthood. God however continued to be very patient, blessing me immeasurably throughout these years. After college, I eventually, decided to half-heartedly move into the Isaac Jogues House of Discernment in an effort to “settle” this priesthood thing once and for all. After a few months, I determined it was not for me and focused my efforts on marriage. I found a decent job and beautiful girlfriend, but the call resurfaced, more pronounced than ever. After nearly two years of dating and working, both God and I knew the time had come for me to make a decision. Through a source none other than the Holy Spirit, it became apparent to me that I loved Christ, His Church and His people. I asked myself, why am I running from Him, how could I say no to my Lord? For the first time in my life, I turned my life over to Christ, prayed with a fervent heart and genuinely desired what He wanted for me. My decision to enter into formation for the priesthood was not easy, however over time, the Lord has enflamed my love for Him and the Church and replaced my fears with joys and fervor for bringing Christ to others. As I study for my second year of Pre-Theology, I continue to rely on the graces from Our Lady to lead me to her Son and pray that I will become what God has always wanted me to be. During this “Year of the Priesthood” I pray the same for all men discerning a vocation to the priesthood of Jesus Christ. Please feel free to contact me: My e-mail is bebop6@gmail.com
