Tidbits

Those of us traveling the world for J-Term returned to discover two new men had entered our community. One comes to us from the Diocese of Des Moines and the other from the Diocese of Davenport. Both of these men are entering the Pre-theology program, but an abbreviated version, as both have already participated in alternative programs formation.

+++

On Friday evening, the men of First Theology will be installed to the Ministry of Lector. The Mass will be celebrated by Bishop Doran of the Diocese of Rockford. This installation is the first formal step that the First Theologians will make toward ordination. Please pray for them as they do so.

+++

Monday marked the first visit of the Archbishop for the new semester. He commented on the fact that when he studied, men were neither encouraged nor permitted to go gallivanting about the world as part of their formation. His remark prompted me to reflect on the fact that St. Paul Seminary has done a remarkable job in exposing men to the Universal Church. With trips to Venezuela, Mexico, the Holy Land, and Rome, we really do get a taste of the immensity of the Church, her members, and her mission. I am deeply grateful for having had that opportunity.

+++

I recently received a letter from my diocese encouraging me to begin making the preliminary plans for my presbyteral ordination. In Rome, I began purchasing a few things that I will need as a priest (oil stocks, Mass kits, and the like). Priesthood is suddenly very near, and I am very excited for it.