Family: youngest of three

Grew up in: Worland, Wyo.

High school: Worland High School

Seminary: Mount Angel in St. Benedict, Ore.; studying in Borromeo pre-seminarian program while completing college undergraduate work.

Top three hobbies: shop work of any kind, construction, agriculture

When did you hear the call of your vocation?

I first heard the call when I was 25. I am now 30. I responded to it then, but struggled because I didn’t understand what it meant to be a priest. At that time, all I could focus on was that a priest didn’t get married, and in my heart I knew I wanted to be married. So to help me better understand the priesthood, the Lord let me consider the married life. It was a beautiful experience. Eventually I got engaged and the future looked bright, but there was still a longing in my heart that wouldn’t go away. It was also at this time that I really grew in my knowledge of the Catholic faith. The more I understood the Catholic Church, the more I fell in love with her. Then the desire for the priesthood came back, and I more fully understood that a priest actually marries the Church like Christ did. With this clearer knowledge of what I was getting into, I responded again to God’s call, this time with no reservations and with all of my heart. This was in November of 2007.

What moments or experiences in your life nudged you toward your vocation and/or awareness of it?

One of the greatest experiences I’ve had is listening to Catholic radio while I worked; it really convinced me of the teachings of the Catholic Church. I was often confused about what the Church taught and why. Through Catholic radio I was re-catechized and truly set free by the teachings of the Catholic Church. It was around this time that I really began to feel a love for the Church. Then, through this desire and the longing to share the truths of the Church with the rest of the world, I stepped out in faith to discern the call to the priesthood.

How have your friends, peers and family reacted to your vocation? What has been most helpful, in terms of support, from your friends and family?

All my family and friends have been very supportive. Support and encouragement is all one can expect from family and friends. It can be hard for others to relate to what it is like to be called to a religious vocation unless they have been called themselves. My parents have probably been my biggest fans, not that they are in my corner cheering me on necessarily, but it’s their steadfast love that really inspires me.

What has surprised you about being a seminarian? How have your expectations been met or exceeded?

The transition to the seminary wasn’t easy. I took a while before I really understood that now I was a seminarian representing the Church, and realizing this has brought about a healthy sense of pride. Coming in, I was quite afraid of all of the studies. Academics have never been my strong suit, but through the grace of God, I have been able to do pretty well in my classes and even found that I enjoy them. But the most fruitful experience I’ve had so far has been in my spiritual life. The seminary provides an environment that naturally draws one closer to God. It is probably the peace of mind and heart that I have enjoyed the most. Just being able to calm down and listen to God’s voice has been a great blessing. The seminary life isn’t easy, though. In fact, I would say it’s been one of my biggest challenges in life so far, but it’s though these challenges that one grows closer to knowing who he really is in the sight of God, and with this comes peace.

Who are your top three spiritual influences?

Pope John Paul II has greatly influenced me with his call to the New Evangelization and to stand up against the culture of death. All of the priests involved in our vocation program have greatly inspired me with their example and witness, especially Father Tom O’Donnell, who helped me immensely in making the decision to go for the priesthood. I can now say that we made the right choice. Probably the biggest encourager in my relationship with Jesus has come from the example and guidance of Mary. Her motherly hand has guided me safely through the rough waters of our present day.

What advice might you give to those discerning a call to religious or priestly life?

As Pope John Paul II would say, “Be not afraid.” It can be a big step to make, but it’s one that you’ll never regret. You can only benefit from the giving of yourself to find God’s will. If you’re not called, he’ll let you know, and you’ll be a better person for finding out. I read some good advice when I was trying to decide which direction God was calling me: “A docked boat can’t easily be steered.” Let go of the shore and let God guide you. He knows the way to your ultimate happiness.