Upon entering college, I began an environmental study degree. I worked on a cranberry farm, where I marveled every day at the stewardship of crops and the way this work mirrored God in my life. While I could have been happy working on that farm forever, with each passing day, God was laying the groundwork for my calling to the priesthood.

One day in adoration, I was moved to tears. I felt the raw love that the Lord had for me:  His mercy, forgiveness and kindness overwhelmed me. At that moment, I realized I wanted nothing more than to spend as much time with Him as I could.

I had not given much consideration to the priesthood, but one day, after overhearing me talking about my faith, a random stranger in a diner told me that I should go to seminary. This planted the seed, but doubts flooded in. I worried that I was not holy enough to be a priest, even though I loved God and the Church with all my heart.

Yet I was unable to resist God’s calling for long. I continued to be drawn towards the priesthood, and eventually, I switched my major to theology and philosophy. Learning more about Catholic teachings not only engaged my intellect, but helped strengthen my faith as well.

I realized that God was calling me to apply to seminary. The Byzantine Catholic Rite has been such an important part of my faith life, from serving at Divine Liturgy beginning at the tender age of five, to the Eastern focus on the Church fathers, and so much more.

I believe the priesthood is God’s will for my life, and as such, I desire nothing more than to be a faithful and dutiful servant to God as a Byzantine priest. I know from experience that only God can fill the hole in people’s hearts. I seek to help bring people into that truth through the light of His presence. By spreading His word and serving as a faithful example, I will strive to shepherd God’s people as a priest they can rely on no matter what.