Reverend Philip D. Briggs

Fr. Philip Briggs was ordained a priest of Jesus Christ on June 4, 2022.

Read the Arlington Catholic Herald interview with Fr. Briggs. 

What did you do prior to entering seminary?

I graduated from Christendom College in 2013 with BA degree in Political Science and Economics. For 3 years afterwards, I worked at a local Virginia winery as a cellar master, where I learned the craft of winemaking.

What influenced your decision to apply for seminary entrance?

Through my interactions with holy priests in my life, I learned that the priesthood is a life filled with sacrifice, joy, and love.  In addition, I also grew closer to some of my friends who became seminarians, and how they were able to grow closer to Christ through their vocation.

Why do you want to be a priest?

First and foremost, I wish to grow in my relationship with Christ, and it is my hope to also lead others to Him through the sacraments. There is something liberating about surrendering oneself completely to Christ in order to become an instrument of His love in the world, and I hope that my life can be spent for the salvation of others.

What are your favorite pastimes?

Hiking, reading, traveling, cooking, and spending time with friends.

What is your favorite quote?

"Greater love had no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." John 15:13

Who is your favorite Saint and why?

St. Peter. He is my confirmation saint, and he has been a great example throughout my own life. Even though he was an imperfect person who denied Christ three times, Christ still wished to establish the Church upon the papacy of Peter. Despite any sort of mistakes I make in my life, I know that St. Peter also made similar mistakes, and relied completely on the mercy of Christ.

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

Develop a healthy prayer life by frequenting both the Holy Eucharist and Confession, and also by reading Sacred Scripture daily. Listening to the Word of God in silence is one of the surest ways to discern what vocation Christ is calling you to live.