Benjamin Haddock

Pre-Theology II
Mount St. Mary's Seminary
Baylor University
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton

What did you do prior to entering seminary?

I was a full-time undergraduate student at Baylor University in Waco, Texas.  In May 2021 I earned a bachelor of science degree in biology with a concentration in cell and molecular biology, as well as fulfilling the requirements for a secondary major in Spanish.

What influenced your decision to apply for seminary entrance?

I love telling people that my Catholic faith was never stronger than when I was attending a Baptist university, and it's true.  I entered college studying biology because it was a subject I had enjoyed in high school, but without a clear purpose for my life.  Thanks to a wonderful Catholic community I grew to love the Church and serving God's people; along with that came a desire to spend my life according to the path He ordained.  Through prayer I asked Him to show me this path, and I inexorably returned to the idea of entering the priesthood.

Why do you want to be a priest?

Holy men and women throughout history have likely thought much the same, but our world today desperately needs the life of sacramental grace offered by the Catholic Church.  Priests are the ones with the sacred duty to bring this grace to their flocks, teaching and guiding them to build up the Mystical Body of Christ.  In short, I want to share Jesus with the world, not just in word but in the flesh, in the Eucharist. 

What are your favorite pastimes?

I enjoy long-distance running, swimming, reading, practicing my Spanish, and praying the Rosary!

What is your favorite quote?

"I am the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end."  Revelation 22:13

Who is your favorite Saint and why?

Pope St. Gregory the Great, whom I chose as my Confirmation saint.  He displayed great discipline and generosity in his life, always allowing himself to be guided by the influence of the Holy Spirit and subjugating any personal weakness to his responsibilities as a shepherd of souls.

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

You will be taking on the mission and identity of Christ in a radical way, so it's important that you know and love Christ!  Spend time with Him in the sacraments and by participating in the life of the Church.  Attend Mass and receive Reconciliation frequently--daily for the one and weekly for the other, if you can.  Remember that Christ is also to be found in all of our brothers and sisters throughout the world, so find opportunities to serve others in church organizations and form friendships that will help strengthen your faith.