Parish: St. Mary Parish, Menasha

Birth Date: September 13

Seminary: Mundelein Seminary

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

Theology IV

E-mail: E-mail Deacon Ryan Krueger

What is the best aspect of being at a seminary?
It is wonderful to be able to spend these years with a large group of like-minded men, growing in and studying the faith together. There may never again be an opportunity like this in my life, and I am soaking it up while it lasts!

What do you like to do for recreation?
We have a beautiful campus here at Mundelein Seminary and I like to take a walk or run around the lake at least a few times a week. I really enjoy going to the movies with my buddies. And spending Sunday afternoons at Buffalo Wild Wings watching the Packers beat up their latest opponent.

Have you had any pets in your lifetime?
My family has always had an Irish Setter in the home. Right now, we have a two-year-old named Reilly. Growing up, I also had a pair of fish, Tom and Jerry. When my sister is home from college, there is a snicker-doodle named Finn running around as well.

What do you remember most about your Confirmation?
The bishop that confirmed me was Bishop Robert Morneau, our auxiliary bishop in the Diocese of Green Bay. What stands out most clearly for me was the moment when Bishop made the Sign of the Cross on my forehead with the oil. That has always just stuck out in my mind. Also, I remember the sessions with my sponsor, Kim Wolf, and how much we both learned through the process.

What is your favorite poem?
"Jesus is Laid in the Tomb" by Hans Urs von Balthasar is my favorite poem. I first read it in a book by Regis Martin called "Suffering of Love." It is eerie and sad, but full of hope. Holy Saturday, the silence of the tomb, and the way Christ enters into his death has always been something that intrigued me. This poem helped capture that time and that moment.

What was one of the best days of your life thus far?
I have had many great days, but one that stands out in recent times is having spent last Christmas Eve in Bethlehem, visiting the place of Christ's birth. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Which saint should people ask to intercede for your vocation?
St. Maria Goretti. I have been close to her for a long time now, and she has helped teach me, along with Our Blessed Mother, what it is to live purely. She also teaches me how to live with an undivided heart, focused on Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.