Joseph Angsten

College IV
St. John Paul II Seminary
NOVA/Franciscan University at Steubenville/Catholic University of American
All Saints Parish

What did you do prior to entering seminary?

After my second year of college, I left to be treated for Lyme disease. In the years that followed, I worked various jobs including a year in the restaurant industry and close to three years in construction. Additionally, I continued taking freelance projects in writing/editing and also in amateur filmmaking.

What influenced your decision to apply for seminary entrance?

After leaving college, I had several rough years where my faith was not my priority. I prayed to God to reset my priorities for me, and He awoke in me such a fire and love for Him and my Catholic Faith. I experienced His overwhelming love in my heart and I knew I had to respond to that love in some way. Through discernment and spiritual direction, God has generously led me to seminary.

Why do you want to be a priest?

I want to joyfully to respond to God's love. Since Jesus is the Good Shepherd, I want nothing more than to be able to follow where He leads, and if He asks me to care for His 99 while He seeks a lost soul, or if He uses me as an instrument to find that missing lamb, that is enough for me.

What are your favorite pastimes?

I love reading and writing, playing board games or sports, and watching movies or sports events.

What is your favorite quote?

Luke 23:42-43. Jesus promises paradise to the Penitent Thief. It's my favorite quote in scripture because it really is what we should all want to hear our Lord promise us after true repentance.

Who is your favorite Saint and why?

I have many patron saints, but I especially have a great devotion to my Confirmation saint, Jean de Brebeuf, one of the North American Martyrs. He endured a life of hardship and suffering out of love for God and neighbor and has the most gruesome martyrdom I have ever read. His sacrifice for those in his care as a priest is a beautiful example of emulating Christ.

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

Forge a personal relationship with Jesus. Intimacy with Christ is the most important thing in our lives. He wants a personal relationship with us! If you feel God's call in your life, give God the time and get to know Him. He will fill that time with His love and grace and I promise you will never regretsetting aside time for God.

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

I used to fence (yes, with swords) and play soccer (without swords).