Parish: Holy Trinity Parish, Oconto

Birthday: May 10

Seminary: Mundelein Seminary

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

Theology I

What is the best aspect of being at a seminary?
Community life, prayer, and studies.

What do you like to do for recreation?
I am a runner. I am training to run the Cellcom Marathon in May of 2012. I am undecided if I will do the half marathon or the full marathon. I also like to read, watch a handful of television shows, watch movies, have new dining experiences, and travel.

Have you had any pets in your lifetime?
Yes, I belonged to a pet-loving family. Back home we have a dog, Shadow, and two cats.

What do you remember most about your Confirmation?
I was confirmed at the Cathedral on Pentecost Sunday by Bishop Zubik. I do not remember too much about the experience except that the Confirmation took longer than the ordinations on the previous day. This was probably due to the fact that over 50 people were being confirmed!

What is your favorite poem?
I have a particular love and passion for the Blessed Mother. Archbishop Sheen was very fond of a poem entitled "Lovely Lady Dressed in Blue" by Mary Dixon Thayer. I too have become fond of the poem, primarily because of its simplicity. The poem in its entirety reflects on Mary's life and role of raising the Child Jesus. Here is the opening stanza of the poem: "Lovely Lady dressed in blue Teach me how to pray! God was just your little boy, Tell me what to say!"

What was one of the best days of your life thus far?
The Lord has blessed my life with many tremendous opportunities that I consider as gifts. These include being able to travel to Europe twice, meeting President Bush, and presenting a paper at an academic conference. I would say all these compete for the "best days of my life."

Which saint should people ask to intercede for your vocation?
The saint whose memorial falls on my birthday is the recently canonized Belgian-born St. Damien Joseph de Veuster. He is more commonly known as St. Damien of Molokai. His life of service to the leper colony on the Hawaii island of Molokai testifies to his selfless devotion and love for the people of God and his willingness to bring the sacraments to all people. I pray that my heart and life may mirror that of St. Damien's: a heart on fire for the Lord, full of love and humility. His priesthood along with many other saints inspire me on my journey through seminary.