Get to know a little more about the men you are praying for as they continue to prepare for the priesthood.
Age: 21
Year of Study: 4th Year College
Home Parish: : St. Charles Borromeo Church, Providence
Where did you grow up and go to school?
I was born and raised in Providence my entire life. My family came from Guatemala, so I grew up speaking both English and Spanish at home. I went to Holy Ghost School up until it closed in 2010, and then to Blessed Sacrament School to finish elementary and middle school. Then, I went to St. Patrick Academy for high school. I am currently going into my senior year at Providence College for a Bachelor’s Degree in theology and psychology.
What does the word “vocation” mean to you personally?
When people think of the word “vocation,” they may think of a career or a job, which is technically true. However, to me the word “vocation” refers to the plan that God has called a person to. A vocation is God’s ultimate plan for a person.
How did you discern your vocation to the priesthood?
Growing up, I had always loved the priesthood. I remember playing pretend Mass with my nieces and nephews, where I was the priest and my niece’s dolls were the congregation. And yes, I even had a collection basket! However, I became more serious about the priesthood when I entered high school, where I became more involved in campus ministry. I felt the true presence of God working in my life. I discerned more about the priesthood when I went to the discernment retreat in the winter, which was run by the Office of Vocations.
What is something that readers may not know about what it is like to be a seminarian?
Since the time I got the news that I was newly accepted as a seminarian, it has been truly incredible to see the love and support of so many people around the diocese. One beautiful part of being a seminarian is that not only are we loved and supported by the people at our home parish, but in any place or parish we go. It is heartwarming to know that so many people are there to support us in our discernment process.
What would you say to a young man discerning the priesthood?
Prayer is the ultimate key to discerning the priesthood. Tell others to help you pray about your vocation. It may not be easy. There is a sense of sacrifice with praying for your vocation. However, through prayer, God will show you where to go and what he has in store for you.
How do you feel we can best support seminarians?
The best way to support seminarians is to pray for us. Whether it is offering a decade of the rosary or a holy hour dedicated for vocations, every prayer is needed. It can be overwhelming at times. However, it is fruitful for us to know that we have the support of the community through prayer.
who do you credit with interceding on your behalf to God for your vocational discernment?
Two people that have been great influences in my vocational discernment are my grandmother and my uncle, Father Jaime Garcia. They have both been great models of true faith and charity that have helped me form my love for Christ and his Church. And who can forget our Most Blessed Mother!
What are you most looking forward to about this coming year of theological studies as you continue to prepare for the priesthood?
I am very excited to grow closer to God. I found that God can speak in many different ways, and God speaks to me through my theological studies. I am very excited to see what God has in store for me as I begin my studies!
Favorite hobbies and/or fun fact about yourself?
I love to sing and play instruments in my free time. I also like to travel, watch lots of movies and hang out with friends and family. A fun fact is that I grew up learning many instruments by ear. I don’t know how to read music, but I was able to learn a couple of different instruments by simply listening to music.
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