Parish: St. Mary of the Seven Dolors Parish, Appleton

Birthday: January 18

Seminary: Mundelein Seminary

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

Theology I

E-mail: E-mail Brandon Barlow

What is the best aspect of being at a seminary?
The best aspect of seminary life is the opportunity for prayer, especially the liturgy. It is a blessing to be able to attend Holy Mass daily, and really dig deeper into God's Word through our course work, personal prayer, and the praying of the Liturgy of the Hours.

What do you like to do for recreation?
For recreation I like to play all different types of sports: soccer, racquetball, basketball, baseball, ultimate Frisbee, golf, and tennis. Additionally, I like to read, listen to music, strum the guitar, and do a bit of pencil-sketch drawing.

Have you had any pets in your lifetime?
I had no pets growing up, except for a few fish. My family was often traveling on the weekends for sports tournaments, which made it tough to have any type of pet that needed to be let out every day.

What do you remember most about your Confirmation?
I do not have many memories of Confirmation itself. It took place at St. Pius X in Appleton, and I was confirmed by Bishop Emeritus Robert Banks. The most memorable part of the whole process was talking with my brother, Brian, who served as my Confirmation sponsor. We discussed the life of faith.

What is your favorite poem?
My favorite poem is by Bishop Robert Morneau. It is called "To Fan the Flame" and I often use it as a prayer to start the morning. The poem/prayer has a beautiful parallel structure, asking God to enkindle our hearts so that we might live lives of holiness and love.

What was one of the best days of your life thus far?
Last summer, on July 24th, 2010, my only sibling got married. My brother Brian married Lauren at our beautiful home parish. I had the honor of being the best man. It was beautiful because my entire extended family was able to make it home for the wedding. There was a special blessing when our Grandpa Vic, who Brian and I were very close to, was able to attend the wedding. Just five weeks later Grandpa passed away, and the wedding day will always serve as a final memory of Grandpa.

Which saint should people ask to intercede for your vocation?
St. John the Beloved Disciple. He was entrusted with the gift of the priesthood at the Last Supper, he stood at the foot of the cross on Calvary as Jesus offered Himself, and he received our Blessed Mother as the mother of all the faithful. Additionally, I am intrigued and inspired by the beautiful Scripture passage where John placed his head upon Jesus' chest. Often I am afraid to approach our Lord with this much intimacy, to trust that I can really be drawn that close to Him. Yet, our Lord calls all of us to Himself.