I grew up across the South. I was born in Metairie, LA and was quickly moved to Poplarville, MS. My first five years of life were spent there, and I formed my first beautiful and difficult memories (I was often sick). I turned six in Mobile, Alabama. Then I turned ten in Marietta, GA. I turned fourteen in Gainesville, GA and graduated High School there. My father’s family are all from New Orleans, LA and my mothers family are all from Mobile, AL.

My main hobby growing up was video games and spending time in Nature. I had a Sega Genesis from a very early age and my dad also enjoying video games made sure I and my siblings always had the next Gen systems. Being from the south and our father being a former camp counselor; we often spent time outside. As I became an adult my love for the outdoors grew and I hiked, camped, mountain biked, et cetera quite often. At the age of 25 I learned how to ride a motorcycle and that became a new passion. At the age of 30 I became a Motorcycle Safety instructor and was greatly fulfilled teaching people how to safely ride and avoid dangerous road hazards. I still ride regularly today.

I once asked the Lord “Why do you speak to me? I am not worthy of this!” after he brought me back to him in the Catholic church he was showering me with consolations. He surprised me with a reply, “Romans 8:30-39” I must admit that I was worried that those verses might not exist! If they are not there, I was likely going insane…who hears from God especially someone so lowly as I? Those verses were there and what an answer!

My favorite saint, what a challenge! The saints have been taking their turns taking care of me. How can I choose a favorite!? I guess my favorite will have to be the most recent. St. Anthony of Padua was a saint I did not know much about at first. I learned through friends at bible study that they asked him for help finding lost things, and as a person who loses things quite often, I took note. Since then, every single time I have called upon Saint Anthony, within minutes the item I have lost is then found. He’s even brought people to me holding the item I have lost, not knowing it is mine. Definitely a wonderful friend to have!

I feel a little uncomfortable sharing my story, as it seems too good to be true; and I am unworthy of it. To make the story as simple as possible; After receiving our Lord at Sunday Mass; I heard the Lord call me in my spirit with the Silent powerful words “Priest! Offer the Sacrifice of the Mass!” which was not what I wanted to hear! I convinced myself that I didn’t really hear anything; even if I did he was calling me to the priesthood of the laity…because I wanted to get married. After running from that call, a month went by and the Lord made it very clear to me that he was indeed calling me, and to stop making excuses. Meeting with Fr. Rey and the other seminarians at retreats and the Borromeo House alleviated my fears and slowly a great excitement for the Priesthood grew in me.

As of writing this I have only been at Seminary for a day and a half, I am here early and Orientation starts tomorrow. I am alone in the house men in my year stay at. I am looking forward to having my brothers join me. All the other Seminarians, deacons, priests, and staff have all been incredible kind, welcoming, and educating. I feel so blessed to be here. I’m sure challenges will come, but at the moment I am relaxing into the stillness of being in this place and thanking God for calling me here.

I look forward to offering the Sacrifice of the Mass. I will have truly answered “The Call” at that point. I also look forward to encouraging people in times of darkness, anxiety, depression, stress, or confusion. To be a vessel that Christs light can shine through, learning how to love like God better and better every day.

Go sit with the Lord, be near him. Humble yourself before him and open everything. Your mind, your heart, your soul. Focus on him in the Blessed Sacrament and be as honest with him as you can. Pester him with questions and never cease, he will have to answer you eventually! Don’t forget, praise him and never be ashamed of your faith. Always be ready to give an account for the Hope that is in you.