Ray Gilmore

My life before the seminary:

I was born in Manhattan Beach, California but spent most of my life in Potomac, Maryland. I went to public school at Churchill High School where I played on the men’s volleyball team for three years, and spent my weekends playing basketball and making music with friends. After skipping my graduation to go on a hiking trip, I attended The Catholic University of America for one year before entering the seminary.

What convinced me to enter the seminary:

I had grown up always being told that the seminary and priesthood were possibilities for my life. However, I had a different plan for myself and I never seriously considered it until I encountered the stories of Fr. Kapaun and a number of other military chaplains, whose intense dedication and sacrifice to God and man made a profound impact on me. From there, with every small step I took toward the seminary God responded back with waves of grace that became impossible to ignore.

Other interests include:

I have a deep love for surfing and all things Star Wars. I also enjoy playing guitar, competitive Jenga, and any sport that isn’t soccer.