Peyton Olszewski

Pre-Theology I
Mount St. Mary's Seminary
Franciscan University of Steubenville 
St. Andrew the Apostle Parish

What did you do prior to entering seminary?

After graduating from Franciscan, I worked a consulting job for three years.  I then had the pleasure of teaching 4th grade at The Heights School for two years.

What influenced your decision to apply for seminary entrance?

St. Alphonsus Ligouri's work “Uniformity with God's Will” and Fr. Gallagher's series, “Discernment of Spirits” were essential in my decision to apply.

Why do you want to be a priest?

Primarily, because I believe Jesus is asking me to be one.  I want to be a light in the darkness, both in my public example and my sacramental action.

What are your favorite pastimes?

I enjoy sports, hiking, reading, board games, leather working, and “theorizing” with the boys.

What is your favorite quote?

“In the world you have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” - John 16:33

Who is your favorite Saint and why?

St. Athanasius.  He was a bold witness to the Truth in the face of great adversity.  

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

Strive to be a saint, remove those things in your life that impede you from this goal (habitual sin, technology, complacency, friends…).  I believe that discernment is a by-product produced within the context of pursuing sanctity.