Eric McDade, Y.A.

Theology II
Mount Saint Mary's Seminary
The College of William and Mary
Youth Apostles

What did you do prior to entering seminary?

I have been fortunate to be connected with Youth Apostles since my college days. Established in the Arlington Diocese, Youth Apostles is a Catholic organization that is dedicated to doing good youth ministry. In recent years, I made a consecrated commitment within Youth Apostles and have been helping with their development efforts.

What influenced your decision to apply for seminary entrance?

I attended an Ignatian Spiritual Exercises retreat where it was clear to me that God was calling me in the direction of the priesthood. I've been very fortunate to have lots of great priests and models in my life to help me along the way. 

Why do you want to be a priest?

I want to help spread the Good News and build up our Church!

What are your favorite pastimes?

I love my family. I love my friends. I love Youth Apostles. I love sports. I love skiing. I love my hometown Baltimore Ravens!

What is your favorite quote?

“History doesn't repeat itself but it often rhymes.” Mark Twain

Who is your favorite Saint and why?

I have a special place in my heart for St. Philip Neri. I appreciate the way he brought humor and joy into difficult circumstances.

What advice would you give to a young man thinking about the seminary?

I recommend getting a good spiritual director and building up your spiritual life. With all big decisions, there are benefits to talking through things to help with blind spots and processing.

If there are any other facts about yourself that people might find interesting, you can note them here:

I grew up attending St. Mark, Catonsville, MD. Upon graduating from W&M, I volunteered at St. Mark, Vienna, VA. It turns out I was also baptized and confirmed on the Feast of St. Mark. (I never realized this until I looked through the paperwork for the seminary application!)