What were your undergraduate major & institution?
I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Dayton (OH) and completed my bachelor’s degree in Sociology.
What were you doing immediately before coming to CSTM?
I was working as the Executive Director of Catholic Charities and was contemplating teaching theology at my local school.
When did you first realize you wanted to pursue graduate studies in theology? How did you know?
When I was asked to teach religion at my local school, I was told I could teach, but I needed to receive a theology degree to continue to teach. This is when I realized this is something I needed to complete so I could continue to be minister.
What people, experiences, courses, etc. informed this call?
My wife and my parents were a big part of this decision. A lot of praying and contemplating if this was God’s will and not my own. Then my experience as a first-year teacher was amazing and I knew this is where I was called to be at this stage of my life.
Were there any roadblocks in your discernment process? How did you navigate them?
Yes, there are financial roadblocks, people who said I should not do this, that I was going the wrong direction with my career, etc. I just went back to prayer. I went back to my family. I am where I am supposed to be..
“ Ultimately I want to use this degree to bring others to God. ”
Why did you choose CSTM for your theological studies?
I was looking at a few other options. Ultimately, what convinced me to come here was my final conversation with Dr. Ospino. He talked to me, spoke to me about the financial scholarships, talked to me about the staff here at CSTM and the rigor of the program. I realized I did not want to take the easy way and do a fully online program; I wanted the program that could challenge me, that could bring the best minister out of me, I believe this was the CSTM.
In what ways do you see yourself using your degree?
I plan to use this degree in multiple ways. It allows me to continue teach theology, I plan to take on more roles within my parish, as well as consider adjunct teaching. I am a seeker; I want to use this information to seek out God because the more I learn, the more I feel drawn. Ultimately I want to use this degree to bring others to God. I am also discerning the diaconate program within my diocese.
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