Deep Love for Christ

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

My current mission is at Gonzaga Prep in Spokane. I was just ordained to the priesthood in June. I *love* being a priest. I enjoy saying masses and hearing confessions, even more than I thought I would.

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

I first encountered the Jesuits as an undergraduate at Santa Clara University. I became very impressed with the Jesuits I met — they were brilliant, passionate, and a little quirky (much like me, except for the brilliant part). My first two years at SCU were also rather difficult, and I really appreciated the interest and care they showed me.

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

Most of the people that I was close to before I joined the Jesuits have remained good friends. I have lost contact with a few because of time and distance. But I have made many new friends during my life in the Society.

4. Is there a particular author, artist, saint, musician, etc. that has resonated with you during the transition into religious life?

For twelve years I have closed nearly every one of my prayers with an intercession to Blessed Peter Faber. Faber, along with Francis Xavier, was one of the original companions of Ignatius. Where Xavier was outgoing, athletic, and self-confident — the quintessential missionary — Faber was shy and self-effacing. Yet his gentleness and deep love for Christ made an impact on people as he traveled all over Europe, spreading the word of God.

5. What the biggest surprise so far?

I don’t know if I’d call it surprise, but I feel most grateful for the people that I’ve been able to encounter during my life as a Jesuit. Christ has revealed Himself to me in many, many different faces.

6. What would you tell a man who’s considering becoming a Jesuit?

This is a truly amazing life. Think about it: You take vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience in a culture that values wealth, pleasure, and personal autonomy. You are bonded by those vows to other men all around the world who are talented, dedicated, and a little crazy. Your mission is to preach Christ’s love for the world, and to make that love real in your life. You do this in a myriad of places, from homeless shelters to high schools, from Spokane to Sri Lanka. You encounter many different people, rich and poor, to whom you minister, and who minister to you. You reflect every day how Christ has been present in your day, and you teach others to do the same. Really, how great is that?