Pre-Theology I (Discipleship Stage)
St. Charles Borromeo Seminary
William and Mary, BA (History); Regent University, MA (Law)
Sacred Heart of Jesus (Winchester, VA)
What did you do prior to entering seminary?
After graduating from William and Mary with a bachelor’s degree in history, I went to work for the Republican National Committee. Then I taught history and math, and coached track and field. During this time, I completed a master’s degree in law. After graduate studies, I went on an intensive pilgrimage to Italy, and applied to the seminary for the Diocese of Arlington upon my return.
What influenced your decision to apply for seminary entrance?
I had a host of life goals that were exceptionally secular; throughout my life after college, the verse Luke 9:25 constantly remained in the back of my mind: “What does it profit a man to gain the world, but lose his soul?” This question forced me to re-examine more seriously each option I considered for my life. After more deeply discerning possible paths in line with the passage in Luke, it became clear that should apply to the seminary.
Why do you want to be a priest?
The Venerable Archbishop Fulton Sheen once wrote, “A priest is mysterious, because he lives in two worlds. He is at his best when he leads ‘a double life,’ at once both human and divine.” A priest’s role is two-fold; he brings God to man by means of the sacraments and brings man to God by means of teaching and acts of charity. My discernment has led me to believe God’s will for my life is precisely this two-fold purpose–and I want to follow His will. I desire to be one of the bridges by which mankind can attain salvation.
What are your favorite pastimes?
I enjoy board games, reading, and frequenting the library. It is a place where I find great comfort as I can do anything from playing chess, to reading a great book, to researching an interesting topic. No doubt, this is why I majored in history at William and Mary!
What is your favorite quote?
“To be ignorant of what occurred before you were born is to remain always a child. For what is the worth of human life, unless it is woven into the life of our ancestors by the records of history?” -Marcus Tullius Cicero, de Oratore
Who is your favorite Saint and why?
My favorite saint is Saint John, his gospel is the most eschatologically interesting of the four gospels and his relationship with Christ’s mother is enviable. Further, Saint John was the only apostle to stay with Our Lord through His passion and death, a level of faith that we should all desire to achieve.
What advice would you give to a young man thinking about the seminary?
As the angel Gabriel said to Our Blessed Mother, “do not be afraid.” The Church is here to discern with you and help you follow the will of God for your life.
