Stephen Wong

My life before the seminary: 
I spent 40 years in the US Army—21 years of active military service and 19 years in active federal civilian service supervising and conducting Counterintelligence and Human Intelligence operations and activities globally. My work required world travel to support US interests in the Gulf, Bosnia, Kosovo, Iraq, Korea, and Afghanistan. My position prior to the seminary was principal Counterintelligence Advisor to US and NATO Supreme Commander, primarily working on counterterrorism and Russian malign influence impacting the US and NATO allies.  

 

What convinced me to enter the seminary?  
Despite a military career, I had always felt a void in my life. I couldn’t really put my finger on it until three years ago when my heart was drawn to the Liturgy of the Hours and I fell so deeply and passionately in love with Jesus Christ. I have always loved our Lord, but this time it was different. I knew the work at hand had incredible implications beyond myself. My continuous urge to look beyond current national security responsibilities led to an initial feeling that there was something more. The more I prayed and read the Breviary, the more Jesus Christ revealed his calling to me. The connection further intensified while at a Mass whereby the Eucharist meant more to me than ever before. I was more awake and the words from the priest were amplified. I knew and felt the Holy Spirit leading me to change direction. As I have served my nation, Jesus Christ is now leading me to serve His people.  

 

Other interests include:  
Following geopolitical issues in Asia and Europe; physical training, building relationships, and leading projects.