Deacon Thomas Robertson

My life before the seminary:

Before entering the seminary, I was very fortunate to grow up as the youngest of three brothers. We were raised in Darnestown Maryland, and all three of us attended Our Lady of Mercy School and then Gonzaga College High School. During high school I spent a lot of time on the Anacostia River as a member of the rowing team and a lot of time in the fine arts classrooms learning how to paint and draw. After high school I attended the University of Delaware. I was accepted as a fine arts student; however, I also began work on a finance degree to follow in my bothers steps, and to assure my parents that I would be able to support myself after graduation. While in the University, I was very active in several student groups including a men’s fraternity and student government. Throughout my time in Delaware, I had a couple of different jobs, and I made plans for full time work after graduation. However, unexpectedly, the Lord had a different plan for me.

What convinced me to enter the seminary:

In my last year at the University of Delaware, my Mother asked me to go to Mass with her while I was home on Thanksgiving break. I agreed to go, but I did not realize that at this Mass the Lord would reveal his love and desire for me to consider a vocation to the priesthood. I left that Mass with a burning desire to be as close to the altar as I could be. I tried many things to get rid of this desire, but the only thing that would bring me peace was, and still is, being at Mass and close to the altar. That following Winter and Spring I met with the Archdiocese, and a few priests that I trust and respect. Among these priests was Fr. Don Worch. During this time, I began to re-experience and strengthen my faith, and in the Fall of 2015, I was accepted as a seminarian for the Archdiocese of Washington.

Other interests include:

Ever since my time in high school, I have always loved to be on the water. While I do not row anymore, I will take any chance that I can to kayak or take out a motorboat. Also, if it is during the winter I always try to spend some time skiing, even if I am not very good! Recently, I have also taken up the hobby of spending some time in the seminary wood-shop, learning simple carpentry and carving. Finally, I also enjoy country music, traveling, and visiting old friends.