Formation Stage

Discipleship Stage II

Home Parish

Mission Basilica, San Juan Capistrano

Seminary

Mount Angel Seminary

Favorite Saint(s)

Thomas Aquinas, Jude the Apostle, and Damien of Molokai are my favorite saints!

Favorite Marian Apparition(s)

My favorite Marian devotion is Mary, Undoer of Knots.

Favorite Book or Movie

Some of my favorite books are the University of Chicago Press’s translations of Seneca the Younger’s writings. I really enjoy reading his writings on ethics; right now, I am rereading “On Benefits”.

Favorite Hobby

My favorite hobby is photography.

Background

What are some of the factors that led to your decision to enter the seminary and discern the question of a vocation to the priesthood?

The understanding of forgiveness in the Sacrament of Reconciliation and the beauty of Holy Communion were the main factors that led to my decision to enter the seminary.

Who are some of the people who influenced your decision to enter the seminary? What is it about them that assisted you?

Generous diocesan priests, as well as the Norbertine Fathers of St. Michael’s Abbey, influenced my decision to enter the seminary. Their example and dedication to serving God’s people really inspired me.

Describe the moment that you knew you wanted to take the next steps to become a priest?

It might sound funny, but I knew I wanted to discern this vocation after watching The Chosen series. I grew up Catholic and have always known the Gospel stories, but seeing them come to life really changed a lot for me. Most importantly, I knew I wanted to discern this vocation through prayer and conversations with priests.