Rev. Mr. Emmanuel Carreno-Garcia

Theology III
Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary
University of Mary Washington
Saint John Bosco Parish 

What did you do prior to entering seminary? 

I have been discerning monastic life and the diocesan priesthood for the past few years, seeking clarity from God about where He was calling me.  Prior to entering seminary in 2018, I worked for FOCUS and the Diocese of Richmond, among other places.  After finishing pre-theology studies, I decided to do an extended discernment retreat at a monastery, where God made clear that the passion I have for evangelization could best be realized as a diocesan priest. 

What influenced your decision to (RE)apply for seminary entrance? 

I re-applied to the seminary after realizing that God wants all of me, not just the parts that I want to give Him, for my sake and for the sake of those (God willing) to whom I will minister in the future as priest. 

Why do you want to be a priest? 

The Lord guides us all to our particular path to holiness. He gives us everything necessary to do what He wills for us for our happiness and salvation. I have come to realize that God has always already been giving me everything that I need for today. "Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will take care of itself. Sufficient for a day is its own evil," (Mt 6:34).  This passage speaks to me since I just have to say yes to today and be faithful to here and now; I don't have to worry about the rest because God's got me. 

What are your favorite pastimes? 

Hiking and camping. I enjoy jogging and outdoorsy stuff. I play guitar some. I enjoy listening to music and watching movies of all kinds. 

What is your favorite quote? 

"There is need for a crusade of manliness and purity to counteract and undo the savage work of those who think that man is a beast. And that crusade is a matter for you.” St. Josemaría Escrivá

Who is your favorite Saint and why?

I have a fascination for Saint Michael the Archangel. I know he is an angel and not man, but I believe him to be humble. 

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

A Carthusian nun was known to have given the same answer every time she was asked a question about matters pertaining to her monastery and community; she would simply respond "Ask Jesus, he'll tell you what to do."  In order to know Christ though we must be close to Him through the means He gives us: Confession, the Eucharist, daily prayer and penance (something that we have all been lacking for sometime). Pray a daily rosary. Ask the Blessed Mother to show you how to know her son, tell her that you are unable to reach him without her help. Beg her, trust her, confide everything you are and do to her, even your sorrows and pain. Then, you will be on the right path.