Christopher Paul Feeney
From: Warwick, RI
Year: First Year of Theology
Seminary: Mount St. Mary's Seminary, Emmitsburg, MD
Since I was very young I have been asked: "Why do you want to become a priest?" The short answer is, of course, rather simple; because I believe God is calling me. It was in the fourth grade that I first "heard" this call. Sister Michella announced to the class one morning that Father was looking for new altar-boys. While I was reluctant, at first, after encouragement from my father I decided to sign up. As we were taught more about the ceremonies, especially the Mass, I became more excited about it. I really loved serving Mass. It was due to the good example given me by my parents, the wonderful priests in my parish, and the sister at the school that I believe I was able to hear and answer a call. It was during high school that I became more convinced that I should try this vocation. There have been challenges and difficulties along the way, but they have all be worth it as I grew to understand better what it means to personally know and follow Jesus.
After two years of college I entered a religious community for two years. It was a great experience and I loved my time there, but I felt deeply that I should follow a calling to serve the Lord and His people as a parish priest. It was then that I made contact with the diocese and since then the loving plan of God's will has continued to unfold before me. My family and friends have been supportive throughout the years, since the very beginning. The Diocese, Bishop Cote and the faculty of Mt. St. Mary's Seminary have been outstanding in their support. I owe them all a debt of sincere gratitude for helping me in the discernment process.
There may be some out there who are wondering if they should try a vocation, either to religious life or to priesthood. If I were to say anything to them I would encourage them to explore any and all opportunities that they will assist them in the process of answering God's call. Particularly, those who feel called to the priesthood, I would ask them something that one of the faculty here at the seminary asked recently in class: "Can you imagine yourself separated from the Altar?" i.e. could you imagine your life without the Mass as the center of your life? What I would suggest, to anyone, is to pray and learn to truly love the celebration of the Eucharist and that is where you will find all the answers.