Reason for Applying: I applied to the Archdiocese of Baltimore for many reasons. As a parishioner at a small, rural parish in Western Maryland, my home parish, St. Patrick, has been impacted because of the priest shortage in our archdiocese. As a result, many priests have been assigned to my parish; these dedicated priests have been a significant influence in my decision to become a priest. It is through their dedication and sacrifice to serve God’s people that I began my own discernment to the priesthood.

What does the priesthood mean to you: The priesthood to me means a life of service to God and to His people. The priesthood means teaching the faith to God’s people, and administering the sacraments, especially the Eucharist, God’s gift of love to us. It is through the Eucharist that we receive nourishment and are strengthened and renewed as believers in the mystery of Christ’s death and resurrection. In summary, I want to become a priest to help people to be transformed by the Word of God and to encourage people to grow and live their faith each day.