I decided to pursue graduate studies at Saint John’s School of Theology in Collegeville. Studying with the Benedictines, I began discerning a religious vocation, though I was uncertain about having a “calling.” I never heard a voice calling out to me. Then, a priest explained it: which would I regret later in life if I chose not to pursue – Marriage or Holy Orders? I struggled with this question, and it led me to a very challenging period in my life. I left theology school and worked in the mental health field for five years, eventually deciding to study psychology.

Yet, God had not given up on me. Looking back, I marvel at the variety of experiences that stirred my faith and gently “called” me to Him: reading Thomas Hardy’s novel Jude the Obscure (about a boy who wants to be a priest, but life gets in his way); an encounter on a quiet, snowy night with a group of deer, which touched me with a deep awareness of God’s presence and beauty; a conversation with a Maryknoll priest, who encouraged me to ask St. John’s if they would let me resume my studies. I did — and they did. The time away, and the experiences I had had, let me to return with a completely different mindset. Soon, I had a Master’s Degree in Theology.

At this point, I was firmly committed to the priesthood. I looked into some religious orders that have monastic ties, but in the end, I didn’t think the monastic life was right for me. Then, I was accepted into the doctoral program in theology at St. Michael’s College in Toronto, where I became familiar with the Basilian Fathers.

The Basilians are a smaller order, devoted entirely to teaching and academics, but who also live in common and pray together, which gives them a good work-life-prayer balance.  They touch all the things that bring me joy: teaching, spirituality, and witness to youth on campus.

I desire to be a priest so that I can preach and teach the glories of our Catholic faith, the rich history and theology which so many do not understand. I want to help God’s people carry their burdens, and offer healing through the sacrament of confession.