Birthday: October 5

Seminary: Mundelein Seminary

Seminary Address:
1000 E. Maple Ave.
Mundelein, IL 60060

Theology III

E-mail: E-mail Deacon Alvan Amadi

What is the best aspect of being at a seminary?
The best aspect is being intentionally engaged with the four pillars of priestly formation: human, spiritual, intellectual and pastoral. The seminary provides ample room for growth in prayer and growth in personal relationship with God and with one's fellow seminarians. The seminarians are like-minded people, actively discerning God's call in their lives. Needless to say most of them are intelligent, very talented, devout, and generous men.

What do you like to do for recreation?
I like to watch a movie or read a good book. I also enjoy a ride on the pontoon boat and spending time with friends and family. Going sightseeing and traveling is also something I enjoy. I also enjoy theological discussions with friends, especially after a hearty home-cooked meal, often with mint ice cream as dessert!

Have you had any pets in your lifetime?
We had a dog and my parents still have a dog now.

What do you remember most about your Confirmation?
I was 12 years old at the time. It was a beautiful liturgy and the Bishop asked us a few questions during the homily. Close to 350 youngsters were confirmed that day. When I received my Confirmation certificate from the parish office a few days later, they got all the information right, my name, date of Confirmation, name of the parish, pastor's name, except for the name of the Bishop, which was left blank. I guess the person at the parish office was a little bit forgetful that day! I quickly filled in the missing information myself. My parents were not too pleased when they saw my scribbling of the Bishop's name because it was at odds with the artistic calligraphy that was used in the rest of the document.

What is your favorite poem?
I am always touched by the simple yet profound poem of Mary Dixon Thayer which was made popular by Archbishop Sheen. The poem is entitled "Lovely Lady Dressed in Blue." It says so much in few lines and with utmost simplicity. It speaks of trust and childlike dependence on the Blessed Mother as a sure guide to Jesus Christ.

What was one of the best days of your life thus far?
I recently had the opportunity of spending Holy Week in Rome with the awesome privilege of participating in the liturgy of the sacred Triduum celebrated by the Holy Father. This was an experience of beauty, reverence, and prayer that will stay with me for a long time.

Which saint should people ask to intercede for your vocation?
I will ask people to pray to St. Therese, the Little Flower of Carmel, for me. She is the patron saint of the missions as well as a Doctor of the Church. I feel a deep connection with her since I believe I am called to be a missionary in the Church today.