Birthday: June 15
Parish: Sacred Heart of Jesus-Shawnee
High School: St. James Academy
University: Kansas University
Seminary: Kenrick Glennon, St. Louis
Year in Seminary: Theology II
Favorite Saint: St. Josemaria Escriva
My advice to men considering the priesthood: Don’t be afraid to listen to “the tiny whispering sound” from God in your life. It is easy sometimes (perhaps frequently) to brush it aside as if you were imagining it. If you experience a feeling about a possible call to the priesthood, don’t be afraid of giving it a chance. One of my favorite quotes from St. Josemaria Escriva contains the exhortation to “…blaze a trail”. If you want that opportunity, don’t be afraid to give God a chance, to give discernment a chance, and to give seminary a chance.
Why I want to be a Priest: I want to be a priest because I believe God is calling me to it and for the salvation of souls. I have a love for the sacraments which was fostered very much by my high school and college experiences, and I want to celebrate them. To answer “yes” to the call is assenting to a heroic call, and I want to be able to stand up and say “yes” to God’s prompt: “come and follow me”.
Hobbies & Interests: Reading, watching sports, playing golf, playing video games with friends, learning more about ancient history, and listening to podcasts.
Those who influenced my vocation: Mom and dad, Fr. Mitchel Zimmerman, Fr. Steve Beseau, FOCUS (Fellowship of Catholic University Students), Pope Benedict XVI.