I grew up in Buenos Aires, Argentina until age eight, and since then I’ve been in Sandy Springs, GA, enjoying time together with my older and younger siblings of various nationalities. It is thanks to my Chilean mother’s side of the family that we received the Faith, especially through daily Mass and the nightly Rosary.

Spending time with God (such as at Mass, Adoration, and reading the Scriptures) and with nature (such as birding, hiking, caring for pets, and learning about local flora, fauna, and rocks).

“Seek first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness, and all these things will be given to you besides” (Matthew 6:33, Luke 12:31)

After J.M.J., it’s St. Francis of Assisi because of his zealous and radical imitation of Jesus’ poverty of spirit, as well as his love for the poor and the animals. Two other favorites among too many are St. John Vianney and Padre Pio, both of whom worked and suffered greatly for the well being of others.

The earth and its creatures always intrigued me, so I had my life all planned out since I was very little: to be an ornithologist, naturalist, or some other exciting scientific profession in the outdoors. However, during an Adoration vigil when I was twelve, I suddenly felt intensely drawn to the priesthood, and the calling has been irresistible since then, despite all my weaknesses and delights with the earth. While discernment drifted to religious life, I studied geosciences and then had an amazing summer of ornithology fieldwork. Nevertheless, my enjoyment with this world doesn’t compare at all to the fulfilling joy I have in God, who is so lovingly present with us in the Holy Eucharist, and in answering the interior pull to go to seminary.

I look forward to giving my life over to God for Him to use as He pleases for His beloved people, the Church, Christ’s Bride. I want to be there for them, to help them know, love, serve, and have eternal joy and peace with God, especially through the Holy Mass, the Sacraments, and prayer.

Get to know the Lord more deeply by spending as much time as possible in His Real Eucharistic Presence – in the tabernacle, monstrance, or within you after Holy Communion. The more you know His Love, the more you will love Him, and the more you will be drawn to do His Will and live in close friendship. Put God first in everything and He will provide for your future. Deus Providebit!