Andrew Garcia

Pre-Theology II
Mount St. Mary's Seminary
Christendom College
St. John the Baptist Parish

What did you do prior to entering seminary?

I worked in shipping management for The Strong Oaks Woodshop for 5 years. Prior to that I cooked for a Thai restaurant, and earned a bachelor's degree from Christendom College where I studied philosophy.  

What influenced your decision to apply for seminary entrance?

The Holy Spirit working through my lay and religious friends. I found myself in too many seemingly coincidental situations and formed too many influential friendships to ignore what was essentially a flashing neon sign telling me to find a spiritual director and begin discernment.

Why do you want to be a priest?

I think heaven would be kind of an awkward party if I drive for 80+ years to get there and I don't know anybody, so I'm trying to get as many people to go as I can. While this is obviously the primary purpose of ANY vocation, I think my background, talents and personality fit best with this particular way of life.

What are your favorite pastimes?

Cooking with friends, small artistic projects with wood/metalworking, fishing

What is your favorite quote?

"Death has no sting; hell has no victory.  God has put eternity into the mind of man." --Dr. Brendan Mcguire 

Who is your favorite Saint and why?

Currently I am torn between St. Therese of Lisieux and St. Mary Magdalene because I relate to both. The simplicity of St. Therese's spirituality (as well as her tendency to worry and overthink) are both definitive and influential of my own experience. St. Mary Magdalene was called out of her sinfulness, as we all are, which I find both relatable and very compelling. Other notable mentions are St. John the Baptist, St. Gregory the Great, and St. Paul.

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

God is an all-loving father and He knows everything. With that in mind, quit worrying and listen to what He's saying.