Home Parish: Holy Cross in St. Croix
Anticipated Ordination: 2032
Parents: Stan and Martha
Siblings: Gavin, Garth, Samantha, Blake, Joel, Danielle, Jeremiah
From early on in my childhood, I dreamed of one day becoming a priest. Growing up, I would serve Mass often, and I enjoyed helping to set up for Mass as well. Whenever I would share my dream of one day becoming a priest with those around me it was always supported. My family and friends never discouraged these ideas, but they also made sure that I understood that there were other options as well.
As I entered high school, I began to entertain dreams about having a family, how I would raise my kids and owning my own board game shop. During this time, my family and friends encouraged me to attend many retreats and youth groups such as Source and Summit, Rock Your Faith, Bosco and Savio. These retreats included many prayerful moments that left me feeling deep in the loving arms of Christ. When I left these retreats the only thought about my future that brought a smile to my face was that of becoming a priest.
As I continued through high school, I became more involved in the Savio brotherhood. To my surprise, I found a huge amount of support in following my vocational call, and because of this, the path to priesthood began to seem less daunting. As high school continued, my friends and family gave me wonderful examples of following God’s call wherever it may lead. These examples gave me the crucial confidence to continue to take the next step towards my vocation which eventually led me to apply to seminary.