Semantics (A Seminarian Blog)

As we reflected on our time this week at the West Virginia Children’s Home, there was a strong sense of satisfaction at days well spent.  

This year, ten St. John Paul II Seminarians and our vice rector are spending our Spring Break on a service trip to West Virginia. We are working at the West Virginia Children's Home in Elkins, West Virginia, and staying at a retreat center not too far away. After driving over on Saturday and settling in, we spent Sunday visiting a parish in the area and visiting with some of the kids who live at the children's home.

Rarely had I felt so small, yet so privileged to be able to witness the Lord at work. I felt I was receiving a bigger gift than they were. Gone was the panic and fear of a few days earlier, all that was left was gratitude. I am filled with gratitude to the Lord for letting be a small part of his plan, and I am excited to continue getting out of His way and letting Him work throughout my time of priestly formation.

At that moment you realize the vast number of people taking part.  However, this large amount of people is not the most amazing aspect of the March for Life. The most amazing part is that it is always a joyful event.  The atmosphere is one of celebration; despite the horrific thing we are there to protest.  There is a sense that we are celebrating life

When I was accepted to Saint John Paul II Seminary, I didn’t know what to expect. I feared that I wouldn’t be as holy or as smart as the other guys. I feared that my personality wouldn’t mesh well with the guys in the house, and especially with my roommate. Now as my second semester begins, I have no concerns about the fraternity here.