BACKGROUND

I was born in San Bernandino County on 09/20/1994. I lived in Chino Hills for a little while but mostly grew up in Placentia. 

I went to Servite High School and then Franciscan University and was involved in many ministries, including Confirmation, Youth Ministry, Summer Camps, and much more. 

What are some of the factors that led to your decision to enter the seminary and discern the question of a vocation to the priesthood?

Above all else, it has been the Grace of God. I owe everything to Him and what He has revealed to my heart through prayer and the people around me. 

Who are some of the people who influenced your decision to enter the seminary? What is it about them that assisted you?

There have been many people who have helped influence my decision. I have been blessed with holy communities and friendships that have guided me to be where I am today. Throughout my life I have always found that God has given me the opportunity to be placed among people who are striving every day for holiness, this always inspired me to do the same. This is where that day-to-day ascent towards God has led me and I am so thankful for those who have been His face to me throughout my life. 

Describe the moment that you knew you wanted to take the next steps to become a priest?

It is difficult to place one moment above the rest. God has been incredibly patient with me and has gently guided me over the years in this direction. The biggest single instant was a few years back while I was praying about whether my heart desired Priesthood or Married life. God revealed in that moment that all of my desires for married life were motivated out of fear and complacency while all my motivations for the priesthood were motivated by a desire for love and holiness. That day as I was writing in a prayer journal, I wrote out the words “Uh oh, this is a dangerous thought.” Once He revealed that to me, it was not long.