My route to priesthood was a circuitous one. God had placed so many bless- ings in my life that it was somewhat hard to see the ultimate choice. I had a great family, excellent education, wonderful job opportunities, supportive friendships, and many possessions.

When I thought about priesthood, a new job offer would arrive; alternatively, a wonderful woman would come into my life. I would begin dating and mar- riage and family life became a primary focus.

What I had to learn was that God was so good that He intended to continue abundantly blessing my life but was asking that I leave behind all the other goods so as to have more time for the ultimate Good.

Finally, I spoke with the vocation director and things moved very quickly. I was on a business trip to Texas and Arizona when the bishop called and said he had accepted my application. This was in July; and on August 31, I was off to the seminary. I had to sell a house, a car, and try to find storage for a number of items. In God‟s way, it all worked out.
I spent four years at the American College in Rome and made some of the best friends I have ever had. After ordination, I served in a parish in Wash- ington D.C. with a pastor who was a deeply spiritual man and who was an excellent formator of new priests. After two years, I returned to Rome for graduate studies in theology.

Once these studies were completed, I entered the Society of Saint Sulpice and began my service as a seminary educator and formator. I have served in leadership positions for over twenty years at Saint Patrick Seminary in Cali- fornia, Assumption Seminary in San Antonio, and as director of clergy forma- tion in Alaska.

“That I may know Christ and the power of His Resurrection.” – Philippians 3:10
“It is no longer I who live but Christ who lives within me.” – Galatians 2:20