I thought about becoming a priest as early as second grade, and when I was fourteen, I joyfully shared with my parents that I wanted to be a diocesan priest. They rejoiced with me in my decision but also gave me freedom to continue to discern.

Later in high school, my prayer life diminished, and with it so did all thoughts of the priesthood. I still attended Mass every Sunday, altar served, and participated in our parish youth group, but I didn’t practice my faith in a personal way in my daily life. The call to priesthood never disappeared, but it would take some time for me to seriously consider it again.

When I began college, I was moved to go to confession for the first time in three years. After returning to this beautiful sacrament, my faith life was refreshed and rejuvenated. I got involved in campus ministry and began investing in friendships with fellow students who wanted to grow in virtue.

As my faith revived during college, so did my interest in the priesthood. I began spiritual direction with a wonderful priest and started attending a monthly vocational discernment group. Though I still felt called to the priesthood, I was now drawn more to religious life rather than diocesan priesthood. I began attending Traditional Latin Mass and was introduced to the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest. After doing some research, I signed up for a five-day visit. I loved every minute of my visit and left excited and knowing I wanted to apply.

From my very first visit, the ICKSP felt like home. I was moved by their devotion to Our Lady, community life, and grounding in the beautiful traditions of the Church. With great joy, I applied and have been accepted into the ICKSP’s candidacy program. I greatly look forward to joining my life with theirs and serving the Church as a canon of the Institute.