1. Where are you currently missioned and how’s it going?

My mission is to study theology at Weston Jesuit School of Theology in preparation for ordination and I love it. I’ve taken lots of courses that are interesting academically and practically focused, I live with a great bunch of Jesuits who I find quite inspiring, and I have enough practical experiences of ministry to keep my studies and my vocation grounded in the regular experience of Christ’s continuing presence in those in need.

2. When was the first time you thought about being a Jesuit?

I first thought about religious life when I became Catholic at the end of my undergraduate studies. That was when I discovered Catholicism, became Catholic, and started taking seriously the real presence of Christ in the poor. It was in searching for how to live in authentic solidarity with Christ that I met and was drawn to the Society of Jesus.

3. How have your friendships changed or stayed the same since you entered the Portland novitiate?

My constant moving (Portland, New York City, Spokane, Boston) means that some of my friendships have become stronger as we have to intentionally choose to stay in touch, while other friendships end up passing into casual acquaintances. I certainly have met lots of new people in my travels and have developed some very close friendships with people I have met in graduate school. Overall, I would say that I am much closer to my friends now than I was before entering the Society, in part because of the closeness I have with other Jesuits.

4. Is there a particular author, artist, musician, etc. that has resonated with you in these years?

Rhythm has definitely become important to me over the years. I was recently part of drum circle on a retreat with homeless men and it was amazing to be part of that polyrhythmic nonverbal communication. Trading fours has become my image of authentic human interaction.

5. What’s the biggest surprise so far?

I had no idea about the possible depths of human living and how much I could grow. I have met other Jesuits and people who live on the streets who are hands down far more deep and authentically human than I am, and I know that being around them helps me become more deeply human. Since what’s most deeply human is most deeply Christ, I have found depths to my own salvation that I never suspected.

6. Is there anything you would want to tell a man considering the Jesuits?

There isn’t a better way of living than in putting all of who you are, with all of your talents and flaws, in the service of God. All of the natural talents, personal discoveries, and spiritual graces that a Jesuit receives are put to the service of Christ in the world. There are certainly other ways to be entirely committed to the mission of Christ, but the camaraderie and single focus of the Society of Jesus helps me to life the life of Christ better and with more joy than any other way I can imagine.

Weston Jesuit School of Theology

Update: Since this was originally posted, Doug has discerned a life outside the Society and is currently living in San Francisco.