As I entered college, I decided to be more intentional about my faith. I chose to say no to the worldly behaviors college life often brings. I sought a brotherhood that I discovered was difficult to find. One day, the thought to consider the priesthood came to my mind. Unsure what to make of it, I asked God to show me a sign – a red cardinal – if He wanted me to consider the vocation. The next morning while walking to class, I saw one lone cardinal. God had answered me, and thus began my discernment.

Though there were ups and downs emotionally and spiritually over the next few years, I followed through on a desire to become an intentional leader of faith amongst my peers. I brought football teammates to Adoration, led the team in prayer, and started a Bible study group. For a long time, though, I was resistant to the call to the priesthood because I was afraid that my friends and family might treat me differently if I pursued it.

A book from my grandmother called All in: Breaking Barriers to the Priesthood finally pushed me out of my comfort zone. I visited the Saint Paul Seminary and was able to interact with other men who all wanted to give their lives to Christ. I saw the brotherhood that I had desired being lived out.