CANDIDACY - TRUSTING IN GOD

Having been in seminary for 2 years, Candidacy was something I was both looking forward to and wondering what it would be like. Having seen fellow seminarians admitted into Candidacy I was always amazed and inspired by their courage. Candidacy for me meant trusting God in this next step of discernment with the Church, in my attempt to try and be open to where the Spirit is leading me. 

When the time came for me to pray and discern whether this was the right next step for me in my discernment with the Church, many thoughts came to mind. As I prayed through the thoughts and feelings, trying to hear the gentle voice of God, I found that the support from both my family and friends was instrumental. Their encouragement and support made this step to be one of joy. As I continue to discern where God is calling me, I feel the support from friends and family is a huge pillar in my life. God, in His wisdom, placed many of my friends, family, and mentors in my life to help discern during this time. This step forward was not one made alone, but one made together as a community. Candidacy highlighted that discernment to priesthood is not a singular decision, but one that is about prayer together as a Church. Having now been admitted to Candidacy, I look forward to what God has in store for me the coming years here at St. John’s Seminary, always wondering what next spark of love He has in store as I continue to keep walking with Him.