Men of the Hearts

“I think vocations really come from the Holy Eucharist.” Join Fr. Jeff Day as he shares his vocation story on this episode of Men of the Hearts. Influences on Fr. Jeff’s journey to the priesthood included the faith of his family, the sacrament of Confession, and the Holy Eucharist. (0:02): Fr. Craig welcomes listeners and introduces this episode’s guest, Fr. Jeff Day. The priests catch up: Fr. Jeff talks about the Divine Mercy devotion, Fr. Drew relates small mishaps from the Easter Vigil, and Fr. Craig shares the blessing of seeing a seminarian ordained to the transitional diaconate.(7:06): Fr. Jeff shares his vocation story, which started with his reception of First Communion in second grade and his desire to become a priest in eighth grade. While attending the University of Michigan, he “rediscovered” his Catholic faith. During his senior year, “I really started to pray about what I was supposed to do, like what was God asking me to do?” Although Fr. Jeff initially felt unworthy, he started to discern a priestly vocation after going to Confession for the first time in years. Fr. Jeff discusses the impact that his family’s practice of the faith had on his vocation.(21:26): Fr. Drew and Fr. Craig highlight the impact of Confession, God’s mercy, and college life on vocations. Fr. Jeff talks about his experience as a seminarian: “There really was a lot of joy…we had a lot of fun together.” He shares that a challenge he faced prior to entering seminary was a fear of preaching. He told God, “You're going to have to take care of this somehow,” and his trust was rewarded. (34:39): Fr. Drew asks Fr. Day about the impact of the Eucharist on his vocation. Fr. Day says, “That has always been part of my identity as a Catholic.” He shares that praying in front of the Eucharist as a priest “is what sustains me in my own daily prayer life” and that “over the years in my own celebration of the Eucharist, I've been drawn to bring a lot more reverence and attentiveness to what I'm doing.” He affirms, “I think vocations really come from the Holy Eucharist.” Fr. Day discusses the experiences of becoming a pastor and participating in a priestly fraternity. (48:32): Advice to a discerning man: Fr. Jeff encourages monthly confession, frequent Mass attendance, and consistent prayer. He also advises involving the Blessed Mother and St. Joseph in discernment: Our Lady “teaches us how to say ‘yes,’” and St. Joseph “wants to help men today be men.” Fr. Jeff concludes the episode with a prayer.

“It's been a crazy, beautiful, amazing adventure, and amidst the difficulties or the uncertainties, it's always absolutely been worth it every day.” Fr. Adam Nowak joins Fr. Craig and Fr. Drew to share his vocation story. Although he initially resisted his vocation, Fr. Adam eventually became certain that God was calling him to become a priest. (0:02) Fr. Craig and Fr. Drew introduce this episode’s guest, Fr. Adam Nowak. Fr. Adam describes his upcoming assignment at St. Anne Parish in Warren, Fr. Drew highlights his recent pastoral work, and Fr. Craig mentions a recent discernment weekend at Sacred Heart Seminary.(9:20) Vocation story: Fr. Adam grew up Catholic, but “the faith wasn't very overtly practiced” in his home. In high school, he started attending a youth group with his girlfriend and soon “fell in love with God and His Church.” Fr. Adam entered college intending to become a psychologist. He felt a call to the priesthood during his freshman year but ignored it for a time. Eventually, he realized, “When I thought about the future, and I thought about being a psychologist, I still felt empty. When I thought about the priesthood…there was nonstop excitement, there was joy, there was fulfillment.” Fr. Adam attended a discernment weekend, felt “100% sure” of his vocation, and applied to the seminary.(22:18) Just before entering seminary, Fr. Adam made a pilgrimage on the Camino. That experience taught him, “I can't do this, but God can do this in me and through me and with me…I can't be a priest except with and in and through Jesus, who gives me the strength and the grace to do so.” The priests discuss the support that Fr. Adam received from his parents, his call to the priesthood, and how he ended his relationship with the woman he was dating as he “became more confident in accepting that call.” (32:18) Fr. Adam shares that “being a priest was nothing like I had ever anticipated nor expected…Nothing can actually prepare you for entering into the messiness of the lives of people.” He explains, “The priesthood is difficult. It's joyful, it's beautiful, but it's not easy. But at the same time, God gives the grace necessary for it.” Fr. Craig affirms that “prayer is key.” Fr. Adam describes his various assignments and explains that he is currently completing two business degrees. He desires to use his administrative gifts to serve St. Anne Parish.(44:30) Fr. Adam advises men who are struggling to answer the call to the priesthood: “What's key is taking time to pray and listen, to really listen to the desires of your heart.” He suggests Ignatian discernment and shares that when he struggled with his own call, “my prayer changed from ‘Lord, what do you want me to do with my life?’ to ‘Lord, give me the strength to accept what you're calling me to do with my life.’” He affirms that priesthood has “been a crazy, beautiful, amazing adventure, and amidst the difficulties or the uncertainties, it's always absolutely been worth it. Every day.” Fr. Adam closes the episode in prayer.

“Jesus is my rock. And he’s the source of that joy.” Join Fr. Jim Houbeck, Associate Pastor of Resurrection Parish, as he shares his vocation story. Although he had previously dismissed the idea of becoming a priest, a clear vocational call amid a crisis led Fr. Jim to follow God into the seminary. (0:03) Fr. Craig welcomes this episode’s guest, Fr. Jim Houbeck. Fr. Drew thanks listeners who have shared positive feedback about Men of the Hearts. The priests share recent blessings: Fr. Jim talks about offering the Lenten Lamentations devotion at Resurrection Parish, Fr. Drew describes his recent ministry experiences and Fr. Craig highlights the well-attended Evening Prayer and Dinner with the Archbishop event. (13:57) Fr. Jim is invited to share his vocation story. As a child, he experienced several different desires about what he wanted to do when he grew up. In high school, Fr. Jim attended a discernment weekend at Sacred Heart Seminary. However, he “felt like a fish out of water” and left the weekend early. He studied elementary education in college and eventually had “a big crisis” about his future career. He relates, “Amid that chaos, there was a voice as clear as day. And that voice said, ‘What about the priesthood?’” Fr. Jim quickly decided to withdraw from college and apply to seminary.(29:24) Fr. Craig, Fr. Drew, and Fr. Jim discuss thoughts about dating, priestly discernment, and responding to God’s call. Fr. Drew advises, “If Jesus is calling and you think you have a call, then go test it,” and “If for some reason you find out that's not the call, then you can freely go into the world and begin to take up the vocation of marriage.” (38:10) One summer, Fr. Jim lived at SS. Peter and Paul Parish in North Branch. Over that summer, he grew close to a local family who became his “spiritual family.” He says, “What God showed me is that though I'm not called to be a dad or a husband, He will provide.” (42:55) Fr. Craig asks Fr. Jim what his prayer life was like when he decided to pursue the priesthood. Fr. Jim explains, “My understanding of being Catholic was I go to church on Sundays, I pray before I go to bed, I pray before meals, and that's it.” Fr. Drew says, “I don't think we're saying that you shouldn't have a life of prayer. By all means. But it's just to say that God is big enough and powerful enough that we have to be open to the reality that even if you're not quite doing all the things you ought to be doing, He can still show up and put something on your heart.” (57:50) Fr. Craig asks Fr. Jim to advise a man considering the priesthood. Fr. Jim shares the words of a monsignor who influenced his vocation: “I am a happy priest.” He affirms, “No matter what I'm enduring or going through, Jesus is my rock. And He's the source of that joy.” Fr. Jim closes the episode in prayer. 

“I knew I would be happy. I knew I could find joy in giving of myself in love within the ministry. And that wouldn't be enough…that would be more than enough.” Our hosts welcome Fr. Robert Slaton to share his vocation story on this episode of Men of the Hearts. Fr. Robert stopped practicing his Catholic faith as a young man, but through God’s providential care, he gradually found his way back and became a priest. (0:03) Fr. Craig introduces this episode’s guest, Fr. Robert Slaton. Fr. Craig, Fr. Robert, and Fr. Drew share recent blessings in their lives. Fr. Robert says, “My ministry, in the last few months, has become more and more challenging. But I think one of the things I would say is just watching consistently how God always seems to provide what you need when you need it, as long as you keep consistently coming back to him with your brokenness.” Fr. Drew shares about his experiences offering Mass for the homebound and those in nursing homes, and Fr. Craig and Fr. Robert discuss how they have experienced fraternity with their brother priests.(15:06) Fr. Robert notes that his vocational call “happened well over a 10-year period.” Raised by a Southern Baptist father and a Catholic mother, Fr. Robert went to Catholic Mass but simultaneously attended a nondenominational Christian school. The idea of the priesthood occurred to him around the age of 10 while he served as an altar boy. However, he stopped altar serving in high school and eventually ceased attending Mass. (34:19) While working as a night-shift recording engineer, Fr. Robert had a dream about dying, which led to an “existential crisis.” He began asking questions about God and morality. Through a providential encounter, Fr. Robert had opportunities to speak to a Catholic man, who pointed him to books by Fr. John Hardon, S.J. Fr. Robert returned to the practice of the faith, which he describes as a “growth process.” He quit his recording job and began working as a short-order cook.(50:52) Fr. Robert “kept studying the faith” and attended a retreat where “the idea just kind of popped in my head, could I be a priest?” He dismissed the idea due to a desire for marriage, family, and business. However, he “started getting fascinated with priests.” Fr. Robert began teaching CCD at a parish and was invited to take classes at Sacred Heart Major Seminary. While there, he discovered that seminarians “were real people.” (56:04) At the invitation of a seminarian, Fr. Robert attended a discernment weekend. Shortly after, he realized, “If I didn't at least give God a year to think about it and really put myself in the environment, I could very easily see that I was gonna be an old man wondering…if I never did what God wanted me to do.” He applied and was accepted to the seminary. While there, he wondered if he could be happy without a family and prayed to God, “You need to show me that this is going to be joyful.” When a deacon asked him, “Are you able to say that you want to be a celibate?” Fr. Robert said, “Yes.” He then realized, “I knew I would be happy. I knew I could find joy in giving of myself in love within the ministry. And that wouldn't be enough…that would be more than enough.” (1:04:49) Fr. Craig mentions that it is common for discerning men to wonder, “Am I gonna be happy?” but says that if they are called to the priesthood, they will “have some desire” for it. Fr. Robert affirms, “If there's a calling, it's not gonna be repugnant.” Fr. Robert gives the advice: “I think the most authentic prayer you can say when searching for your vocation is, ‘Lord, I know you want me to love. How?’” He adds, “God is not going ask you to do something that will make you perpetually miserable…there will be a deep-seated joy in doing what God is calling you to.” Fr. Robert closes the episode in prayer.

“Don't be afraid to make a mistake. And sometimes you need to make a choice without having all the data or all the evidence.” Fr. David Cybulski joins Fr. Craig on Men of the Hearts to share his vocation story. After obtaining a master’s degree, working in Arizona, and unsuccessfully applying to seminary in the Diocese of Phoenix, Fr. David moved home to Detroit and entered seminary at the age of 31. (0:04) Fr. Craig welcomes listeners to this month’s episode and introduces Fr. David Cybulski. The priests reminisce about their seminary days and discuss homily prep, singing at Mass, and their Christmas experiences. (12:59) Fr. David begins to share his vocation story. He explains that he was raised Catholic, attended Catholic school, and became an altar boy in fourth grade. Although a priest told Fr. David, “You're gonna be a priest one day,” he did not really consider priesthood at the time and stopped altar serving while in high school. While studying engineering at the University of Michigan, Fr. David continued to practice his faith due to the influence of his family. (28:43) After obtaining his master’s degree, Fr. David moved to Arizona and worked at a company called Intel. He recalls, “I thought I had it made.” As Fr. David’s church lacked other young parishioners, he joined the group College Youth for Catholic Truth and learned more about his faith. Fr. David became a weekly adorer at a new perpetual Adoration chapel after his pastor said, “If you really believe in the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist, can't you spend one hour a week with Him?”(36:39) After seeing a friend apply to seminary, Fr. David found that “I've got this tug all of a sudden that's coming back.” He heard the CEO of his company say, “Never be afraid of being wrong,” and realized, “I have to pursue this.” Fr. David applied to seminary in the Diocese of Phoenix, but the right doors did not open for him to enter. He moved back to Detroit and entered seminary at the age of 31. (52:34) Advice to a discerning man: Fr. David reiterates his former CEO’s statements, “Don't be afraid to make a mistake. And sometimes you need to make a choice without having all the data or all the evidence.” He adds, “And I've always advocated for if a guy has an inkling coming outta high school, he should go right in… those years won't be wasted. They're probably the best formation you can actually have.” Fr. David closes the episode in prayer.

“I think one of the beautiful things about ministry is that God does give you these gifts, and he allows you to use them in a different way.” Join Fr. Craig and Fr. Drew as they invite Fr. Brian Meldrum to share his vocation story. Fr. Brian grew up Catholic and served as a music minister following his college graduation. After taking classes at Sacred Heart Major Seminary as a lay student, he entered as a seminarian. Fr. Brian is now back at Sacred Heart once more as a Scripture professor. He and the hosts highlight how seminarians and priests can use their God-given talents and creativity. (0:04) The hosts welcome Fr. Brian Meldrum, a Sacred Heart Major Seminary Scripture professor. Fr. Brian describes teaching courses and his previous experience as a music minister. The priests discuss exercising God-given talents: “And I think one of the beautiful things about ministry is that God does give you these gifts, and he allows you to use them in a different way.” Fr. Drew shares about ministering at a hospital and saying Mass for the homebound, while Fr. Craig says that he had the opportunity to go hunting recently.(18:21) Vocation story: Fr. Brian grew up in a Catholic family and attended Catholic school for 12 years. In college, he learned more about his faith due to questions from his non-Catholic friends. Following college, Fr. Brian worked in music ministry in his home parish. His priest was supportive of his participation in the parish and suggested that he attend seminary classes: “I love that approach that it was always just an invitation because, again, people recognize things in us that we sometimes don't see in ourselves at the time.” Fr. Brian had previously considered becoming a priest but “was so quick to talk myself out of it” at that time. (26:43) Fr. Brian took classes as a lay student at Sacred Heart Major Seminary: “And that was great 'cause it got me in the building, got me interacting with guys who would become brother seminarians and brother priests.” He encourages men to enter the seminary, which “is really the place where discernment has to happen.” Fr. Brian experienced peace and fraternity while in the seminary. He highlights how God uses the gifts of each priest to build up the Body of Christ. The priests discuss theatrical productions at Sacred Heart and other ways that seminarians can be creative or engage in hobbies. (41:45) Fr. Brian was ordained in 2015 and served his first assignment at Our Lady of the Lakes Parish. Next, he earned a degree in Scripture at the request of Archbishop Vigneron and now teaches at Sacred Heart Major Seminary. The priests discuss questions about the Book of Daniel and the subjects of Fr. Brian’s two theses: the Books of Ezra and Nehemiah and the account of the plagues in Exodus. (53:52) Advice to a discerning man: Fr. Brian suggests reading the Scriptural account of the call of Samuel. He also recommends “to carve out time in your day for prayer, especially in front of the Blessed Sacrament,” as well as “to know that the relationship with God grows in silence.” Fr. Brian closes the episode in prayer. 

“As far back as I can remember, I've wanted to do God's will.” On this episode of Men of the Hearts, Fr. Craig and Fr. Drew welcome Fr. Joe Kirkconnell, a professor and spiritual director at Sacred Heart Major Seminary. Fr. Joe’s journey to the priesthood included growing up in the Cayman Islands, studying theology in college, and experiencing “subtle graces” during his time in seminary. (0:03) Fr. Craig and Fr. Drew introduce this episode’s guest, Fr. Joseph Kirkconnell. Fr. Joe is finishing up his doctorate in catechetics while also serving as a professor and spiritual director at Sacred Heart Major Seminary. The priests discuss the power of God active in the sacraments, the gift of hearing confessions, and other recent blessings.(15:01) Vocation story: Fr. Joe grew up in a Catholic family in the Cayman Islands, which are under the pastoral care of the Archdiocese of Detroit. He notes, “As far back as I can remember, I've wanted to do God's will.” His mom advised him, “be open to the priesthood because if that's God's will, that's where you're gonna be happiest,” and he told the Lord “I’m open to it.” (21:50) While Fr. Joe was in high school, he began going regularly to Eucharistic Adoration. While praying in the basilica at college, Fr. Joe felt a “subtle invitation” to his vocation. At the same time, he particularly struggled with scrupulosity. After graduation, he obtained his MA in theology. In 2008, Fr. Joe attended a discernment weekend in the Archdiocese of Detroit and entered Sacred Heart Major Seminary. “I was at peace and there was this joy and knowing that He was with me and that He was guiding me. And so, again, I can't say that I had like an overpowering moment. It was just more subtle graces.” Fr. Joe describes his first assignment at St. Paul on the Lake Church as well as his experience studying at the Catholic University of America. (39:38) The priests discuss the diversity of past relationship experiences, struggles, and gifts among men who enter the seminary: “He calls different kinds of guys and He calls us all at the right time.” Fr. Craig affirms, “God's gonna use anything and God can even take your sinful past if you've had a sinful past and turn that into his glory.” He encourages men not to assume they are disqualified from the priesthood due to their struggles with sin or their age. (48:58) Fr. Craig asks Fr. Joe about the qualities he looks for in seminarians. Fr. Joe highlights, “just the honesty… the love for the Lord and the relationship with him and this desire for prayer and this, just a desire to serve.” He shares how he has experienced the gifts of fraternity and humility in his position at Sacred Heart Major Seminary. (53:05): Fr. Joe offers advice to a discerning man: “the words of Jesus: come and see…the only way to really know is to come and try it out.” He explains that whether a man is eventually ordained or not, going to the seminary “won’t be wasted time.” He also emphasizes, “pray daily,” especially in Eucharistic Adoration. Fr. Joe closes the episode with a prayer.

“I'm more content than I could ever have thought possible.” Fr. Mike Cassar joins Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. Drew Mabee on this month’s episode of Men of the Hearts. Fr. Mike, now the Vocations Director for the Diocese of Lansing, grew up in a Lutheran family. Through gentle movements of grace, Fr. Mike was led to become Catholic, enter the seminary, and be ordained a priest.(00:03) Fr. Craig and Fr. Drew introduce Fr. Mike Cassar, the Vocations Director for the Diocese of Lansing. The three priests share memories, laugh together, and discuss recent blessings in their lives. Fr. Mike and Fr. Craig describe their experience attending a national conference for vocations directors, and Fr. Drew shares several meaningful encounters he has had in parish ministry.(17:10) Vocation story: Fr. Mike grew up in a Lutheran family. Although he always believed in God, he gradually stopped attending church due to prioritizing hockey. While in college, he experienced a sense of “restlessness” due to not practicing his faith. After transferring schools, he returned to the Lutheran church where he grew up. Through reading literature by GK Chesterton and Hilaire Belloc, he came to realize “that Catholics thought that they were different” and he was “missing something” as a Lutheran. Not long after, he became Catholic. Fr. Drew describes his own journey from Lutheran to Catholic, and Fr. Mike shares what his family members thought of his conversion. (40:37) Moving toward the priesthood: While in graduate school for philosophy, Fr. Mike began attending daily Mass with his Catholic friends and became acquainted with some priests. The idea of priesthood entered into his mind while he was unsure of his future plans. Fr. Drew points out how God’s grace operated as “a gentle nudge” in Fr. Mike’s life. (47:14) A priest advised Fr. Mike to “work with the poor and go to Eucharistic Adoration.” He got involved with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and prayed in Adoration multiple times a week. He entered seminary unsure of whether he would be ordained, but knew he would not “get any more clarity outside of seminary.” Fr. Mike shares that he did not know how to altar serve or what a novena was as a new seminarian. Fr. Drew emphasizes that “you don't have to know all this stuff before you enter the seminary.”(52:57) A confirmation: Fr. Mike felt more sure of his vocation during a pilgrimage to the Holy Land followed by a 30-day silent retreat. He realized, “I'm more content than I could ever have thought possible… This is where I want to be. This is where I want to be forever.” Fr. Craig highlights the way that God led Fr. Mike through his discernment. (54:39) Advice to a discerning man: Fr. Mike reiterates the advice to work with the poor and go to Adoration. He also highlights the importance of humility, and Fr. Drew adds that developing relationships with priests can help with discernment. The priests emphasize how we can love like God by caring for the poor and discuss how they spiritually feed their flocks as priests. Fr. Craig thanks Fr. Mike for appearing on the podcast, and Fr. Mike closes the episode in prayer.

“I did nothing from Monday through Friday but pray before the Blessed Sacrament.” Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. Drew Mabee welcome Mgsr. Charles Kozanke, the rector of Ste. Anne de Detroit and the Episcopal Vicar for the Central Region of the Archdiocese of Detroit. Msgr. Kozanke has seen the Lord use his gifts and talents throughout his priesthood, and describes how amazing things can happen through prayer.(0:03) Fr. Craig Giera introduces Fr. Drew Mabee, his new co-host and they welcome this episode’s guest, Mgsr. Charles Kozanke. The hosts and guest recap various blessings that the summer has held. Msgr. Kozanke’s recent experiences included the Basilica of Ste. Anne de Detroit’s multicultural celebration of its titular feast day, as well as a trip to Poland. Fr. Drew describes the grace of serving at St. Damien of Molokai in Pontiac, a predominantly Hispanic parish. Fr. Craig shares about his recent opportunity to offer Mass for young people at Camp Sancta Maria.(18:00) Vocation story: Msgr. Kozanke grew up in an active Catholic family and started thinking about the priesthood in seventh grade, largely due to the “foundational” experience of training fellow boys as altar servers. Over time, he discerned that he should enter seminary. Halfway through his Theology studies, Msgr. Kozanke experienced doubts, feeling “50/50” about his vocation. Fr. Craig affirms that men do not need to be completely sure about the priesthood before entering seminary. (30:18) They discuss how God used the invitation to train altar servers to draw Msgr. Kozanke to the priesthood. Msgr. Kozanke is asked about his experience with discernment weekends and explains that they gave him “comfortability” with the idea of seminary. He then shares how God has used his business skills throughout his 37 years as a priest. He affirms, “At the end of the day,…your effectiveness…is really going to be based on what God does through you.” (39:10) The power of reliance on the Lord: Msgr. Kozanke describes how he went to Rome as a young priest to study for his doctorate, but greatly struggled to come up with a topic. Eventually, he surrendered the situation to the Lord: “For a full week…I did nothing from Monday through Friday but pray before the Blessed Sacrament.” At the end of the week, inspiration suddenly struck and he soon made rapid progress on his thesis. Msgr. Kozanke gives a second example of how God provided for him following a week of prayer. He emphasizes that whatever your abilities, “God sometimes may remind you that you’re also limited.” Fr. Craig and Fr. Drew point out how God works with what little we have and already has a plan for us.(51:04) Msgr. Kozanke discusses his experience with various ministries, including Marriage Encounter, American Friends of the Vatican Library, and Young Catholic Professionals. He describes accepting the offer to shepherd Ste. Anne’s, as well as his experience of being Episcopal Vicar of the Central Region of the Archdiocese of Detroit. (59:08) Discernment advice: Fr. Craig emphasizes the need to be open to God’s plan for one’s life and priesthood. He suggests, “take a step back and sit in a chapel for five days. And ask the Lord…‘what is it that You want?’” Msgr. Kozanke encourages men who are discerning to take the “first step” of praying a weekly holy hour in Adoration. He also suggests attending discernment weekends or visiting religious orders whose charism resonates with you. (1:05:50) Fr. Craig thanks Msgr. Kozanke and Fr. Drew for joining him on the podcast. Msgr. Kozanke closes the episode in prayer.

“I viewed my vocation as a riddle I needed to figure out. But this is a relationship with Jesus I need to full-heartedly embrace.” Fr. Paul Snyder joins Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. David Pellican as they dive into Fr. Paul’s vocation. For a number of reasons, Fr. Paul had ruled out the priesthood and when he felt the call at the end of college, he didn’t think it was real. After good priestly advice, prayer in Adoration, and regular daily Mass, Fr. Paul entered seminary and has put his love for marketing to use in ways he never expected. (00:10) Fr. Craig and Fr. David open this episode with a short explanation of the reason behind the podcast name, “Men of the Hearts.” Fr. Paul Snyder is introduced as the episode guest. They discuss Fr. Paul’s background in art, and recent Corpus Christi processions at their parishes. Fr. Craig shares that his family has been sick recently and the experience of suffering has deepened his preaching and blessed those in the pews. He points out that vulnerability in preaching seems to have a lot of fruit for the listeners.(19:50) Vocation Story: Fr. Paul grew up in a Catholic family. In college, he felt drawn to silence. He first thought about the priesthood at the end of college, but he didn’t “know what to do with it.” He got a good job, and had a good retirement fund. He felt he had everything he needed, but he felt empty. He was drawn to go pray in his church’s Eucharistic Adoration chapel, and then to attend daily Mass. The thought of the priesthood came back to him. He asked God, “What do You want me to do with my life?” He feels he disqualified himself from the priesthood because he wasn’t an altar server growing up, or super involved in his faith in childhood. He kept thinking, “Wouldn't I have known this already?”(29:09) A confirming grace: At Christmas Mass, Fr. Paul heard in his heart, “What more are you waiting for?” This spurred him to talk to his parish priest, who encouraged him to attend the upcoming discernment retreat. He felt peace in his discernment and was very excited to be accepted into the seminary. He reflects, “I viewed my vocation as a riddle I needed to figure out.” He continues, “But this is a relationship with Jesus I need to full-heartedly embrace. It’s not a math problem.” He says his prayer changed from, “What am I supposed to do?” to just spending time with Jesus. He reflects, “After you enter the seminary, there’s still discernment. Just because you enter, doesn’t mean you have it all figured out.”(39:15) Fr. Craig shares, “There’s an element of giving stuff up when you become a priest but the Lord is so good and He gives it back to you one hundred fold. He uses that all, you give it to Him, and He gives it right back.” Fr. Paul shares how his love for graphic design has been put to good use as he “markets the best product in the world: Jesus.”(46:21) Advice to a discerning man: “Spend time with the Lord in Adoration. Have time for silence. That’s where we can form that relationship with the Lord.” He continues, “The Lord hasn’t placed a riddle in front of you that you have to figure out on your own. You don’t. You’re not alone. The Lord is there.” He said that talking to a priest to bounce the idea off of can be helpful.(50:27) Fr. Craig reminds us that this is Fr. David’s last podcast with Men of the Hearts: Fr. David is moving to Rome in summer 2023 to study dogmatic sacramental theology. Fr. David thanks Fr. Craig and the audience and asks for our prayers.

“I’ve never heard of anyone regretting exploring a call to the priesthood.” Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. David Pellican invite Fr. John Dudek to the Men of the Hearts podcast. Their upbeat conversation is a taste of the community life they share as priests serving together. They tackle dealing with transition, returning to places of grace, making mistakes as priests, and living in obedience to the Archbishop. “You’ll never be miserable if you’re doing what God created you to do.”(00:03) Join Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. David Pellican as they welcome Fr. John Dudek to this episode of "Men of the Hearts." They discuss current events, upcoming weddings, and graduations, sharing personal stories and creating a sense of community.(10:35) Short Vocation Story: Fr. John Dudek was previously married, and has two daughters. After an annulment, he entered seminary and has been assigned to Divine Child parish for two years, serving the school and the parish. He was recently asked by Archbishop Vigneron to transfer to St. Regis Parish. They discuss Fr. John’s time at Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary in Boston, a school for “late in life vocations” to the priesthood. (25:15) After 26 years as a teacher, when Fr. John entered seminary, he believed he would never be back in the school system. “Those days are behind me.” He was surprised to feel joy at being stationed at a parish with an elementary school and realized that “God uses everything.” During his time in seminary, he felt the Lord telling him when he stood at the altar, “This is your new classroom.” They discuss Camp Sancta Maria, a Catholic summer camp Fr. John attended in 8th grade and returned to this summer as the priest chaplain. (31:27) Living a time of lasts: the three priests reflect on the reality of being moved to new assignments and living in obedience to the Archbishop. They talk about living close to God’s heart as they leave behind communities they’ve poured themselves into, projects they’ve started, and relationships they formed. They share stories of simple or practical mistakes they’ve made during sacraments or Mass. They share a conversation about community life and sharing a rectory at Divine Child. The episode ends with Fr. David Pellican sharing about what his life will look like in Rome, living arrangements, studies, and wisdom from priests friends. (56:05) A word of encouragement: “You go off to the seminary wandering if you’re worthy to serve as a priest. And then you’re ordained, and you realize you’re an instrument God is using to help His people. It’s humbling and it's beautiful.” Fr. John shares, “If you’ve ever thought or wondered what it would be like to be a priest, you need to reach out to Fr. Craig, the vocations director.”

“The Lord never takes without giving back more.” Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. David Pellican invite Detroit-native The Most Reverend John M. Quinn, Bishop Emeritus of Winona-Rochester, to this episode of Men of the Hearts. This former bishop of the Diocese of Winona-Rochester grew up at Our Lady of Good Counsel on Detroit’s east side. He shares about his discernment into seminary, facing changes in the Church, the role spiritual direction has played in faithfully listening to the Lord, and he marvels at God’s faithfulness. Get to know this inspiring guest who Fr. Craig describes as, “the happiest man I’ve met in my whole life.”(00:03) Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. David Pellican welcome us to this episode of Men of the Hearts. They introduce us to today’s guest Bishop Quinn. Fr. Craig describes Bishop Quinn as “the happiest man I’ve met in my whole life.” They discuss the importance of their diaconate ordinations. (14:35) “My ego is not my amigo. I better be ready to have it pierced.” They discuss the experience of receiving compliments as priests and how God’s love for them must remind them of their identity, and not the feedback they receive from others- good or bad.(22:30) Bishop’s Quinn’s Vocation Story: “My first formators were my parents. We prayed the Rosary. We always went to Mass.” Bishop Quinn shares about the impact of his family and the role that his parish pastor played in identifying his vocation. Bishop Quinn’s worries about money, learning Latin, and his previous commitment to go to University of Detroit were addressed in dialog with his pastor. His pastor told him, “If this (seminary) is not for you, you’ll know.” Bishop Quinn shares, “The Lord never takes without giving back more.” In reflecting on ending his dating relationship with his then-girlfriend, and leaving behind his own plan for his life, Bishop Quinn reflects, “When you surrender to God, whatever you thought you were going to do… when you give it to God, God will not destroy it, God will perfect it. God will make it even more.” (36:15) Moments of crisis in the seminary: changes in the Church during seminary, and his own fears were struggles for Bishop Quinn as he was in seminary formation. “Will I even be able to run a parish? What if they don’t like me? What if I'm a terrible administrator? What if I don’t have the ability to work well with groups? What if my personality doesn’t draw people? … listen to your ‘I’ statements.” The wisdom of ‘puncture your ego’ from a spiritual director helped Bishop Quinn let go of his fears and trust God. (53:05) Spiritual Direction has played a very important role in Bishop Quinn living his priesthood close to the Lord. To close, Bishop Quinn offers this advice and encouragement to discerning men, “If you find that you’re going to Mass and you notice that a relationship is developing with the Lord. If you think about the priesthood… that isn’t an accident. God is at work in your life.” He encourages men to pray and listen to the Lord. He says, “I needed to go to the seminary to find out. If this isn't for you, you’ll find out.” Finally, “God does not bring us on this earth for mediocrity.” He encourages all listeners to be brave and trust God.

“Discernment is a win-win situation!” Fr. Jeff Allan brings his insights and wisdom to today’s episode of Men of the Hearts. Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. David Pellican invite Fr. Jeff to share his vocation story, and how God moved the priesthood from “fourth to first” on his list of dreams for his future. Fr. Jeff explains his two chapters of discerning the priesthood, and now how his ministry as a hospital chaplain has opened his heart to the Holy Spirit’s activity through him. (00:03) Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. David Pellican welcome us to this episode of Men of the Hearts. They introduce us to today’s guest, Fr. Jeff Allan (Chaplain, Ascension Macomb-Oakland Hospital). He shares a “recent grace” of reflecting on the saintly life of a priest friend who recently passed away.(08:50) Vocation Story — Fr. Jeff shares that he first thought of the priesthood as a child. As he grew up, he felt being a priest was “fourth on my list.” He was an altar server as a child. Following studying at Adrian College, he did an initial discernment of the priesthood, but didn’t feel he should move forward in discerning. He worked in sales for several years. He began dating a young woman and enjoyed his life. At his office, he joined a prayer group, and started attending daily Mass. Some five years after his initial discernment, Fr. Jeff began discerning the priesthood again and revisited the seminary.(23:23) Two discernments and the role of peace — Fr. Jeff shares that in his second discernment, he felt a new and deep peace as he moved forward. His discernment weekend brought a greater clarity and peace to him: “Spending time in front of the tabernacle in the chapel, and feeling a sense of peace.” He shares that his days in seminary were difficult, and he struggled with studying theology, but the mentorship he received helped him journey through seminary.(31:33) Priesthood — Fr. Jeff shares that he greatly enjoys working as a hospital chaplain. “The staff are the parishioners.” He discusses how he has been stretched in this ministry, about listening to the Holy Spirit, and meeting people in crisis.(51:05) Advice for discerning well — “Don’t narrow the focus! All of us have different callings within the priesthood. Our roles change, and be open to that.” Fr. Jeff offers his insights into discerning a priestly vocation and how he sees God’s work in our lives. He says, “Have a consistent daily prayer life… Eucharistic Adoration, Liturgy of the Hours….” He tells us discernment is a “win-win” situation.

“Do you know His voice? If you’re not praying, you’re never gonna know your vocation.” Today’s guest Fr. David Pellican joins his host Fr. Craig Giera in discussing Fr. David’s new assignment to study sacramental theology in Rome. Together, they revisit Fr. David’s vocation story, this invitation by Archbishop Vigneron to study for the sake of our future priests and the joyful adventure of freely following God’s plan for your life. (00:03) Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. David Pellican welcome us to this episode of Men of the Hearts. They review the last two guests and share that today’s guest is Fr. David Pellican! They share updates on their lives and their excitement for Lent. (10:10) Big news + Vocation Story: Fr. David shares his vocation story, starting with his family. Praying the Rosary and talking about vocations helped him consider “what does God want for my life?” At Age 10, “be a priest” was felt in his heart. In high school, he went on a silent retreat with his dad and the thought of the priesthood came back to him. His initial reaction was to reject the idea. He felt trapped by the idea and greatly desired to be a doctor and get married. As a high schooler, praying before Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament helped Fr. David start to hear the Lord’s voice. They discuss the role of prayer, “Do you know His voice? If you’re not praying, you’re never gonna know your vocation.” (22:13) Religious order or diocesan priesthood? A wise priest helped Fr. David see that religious communities have charisms-- and Fr. David found that his heart was made for service to parishes through the diocesan priesthood. He loved the community in seminary, but found in his heart a lot of fear of public speaking. After his ordination to the transitional diaconate, “the Lord just gave the grace.” He now enjoys public speaking and loves his vocation as a priest. (28:29) New Assignment: Archbishop Vigneron has asked Fr. David to go back to school and study dogmatic sacramental theology. This means he will step out of parish life to live and study in Rome. Fr. David discusses what he’s excited about and what his fears are in taking this new assignment. He shares the experience of being asked by the Archbishop to take on these new studies and the peace he felt in moving into this new season. “There’s a peace in knowing… if you’re doing what the Archbishop asks, you’re doing what the Lord is calling you to.” (40:50) “Anything worth doing, there’s going to be challenges.” Fr. David shares about facing hesitancies or fears in following God. “God’s not going to call you to something you’ll be miserable doing.” They discuss the stability and permanency of vocation. They also spend time addressing the fear of making ‘the wrong’ decision in discerning a vocation.

“It’s not time wasted. There’s no loss in discernment.” Fr. Craig Giera is joined by Fr. Salvatore Palazzolo, a canon lawyer for the Archdiocese of Detroit. Together they dive into Fr. Sal’s vocation story. While studying mechanical engineering, Fr. Sal went through a conversion experience after moving home with his parents. The search for Truth brought Fr. Sal into the faithful practice of his faith, daily Mass, and studying the Church. After hearing the Lord in prayer, and a car accident, Fr. Sal entered seminary. (00:03) Fr. Craig Giera welcomes us to this episode of Men of the Hearts. With the episode’s guest, Fr. Salvatore Palazzolo, they discuss the mystery of Christmas. Fr. Sal explains a few of his family’s traditions surrounding Christmas. (8:01) Fr. Sal shares his vocation story: he grew up in a big Italian Catholic family, and always expected he would raise a big family and have a home that was hospitable for his extended family. He went to school at Kettering University for mechanical engineering. He felt “life was good” and he was doing well financially and otherwise, but he didn’t feel satisfied. So, Fr. Sal transferred to Oakland University to be closer to home. Moving home provided him the opportunity to attend Mass with his family and he sensed that his faith was the answer to why he felt empty. (21:45) “I would say my reconversion happened through the transcendental of Truth.” Fr. Sal talks about his search for the truth about the Church, God, and the Catholic faith. Encountering the Catechism and searching for understanding brought Fr. Sal to the decision to make his Catholic faith his own. “The more I learned about my faith, the more my faith grew, and the more my love for God grew.” He started reading scripture, attending a young adult group, and going to daily Mass. The Catechism played a key role in his conversion. (27:01) A sign from God: Fr. Sal shares the impactful story of how a car accident changed his perspective on his faith and his life -- and his future. After a powerful experience of a call to the priesthood in prayer, Fr. Sal contacted the Vocation Director and attended a Come and See at the seminary. After visiting the seminary, Fr. Sal entered and following his studies, he was ordained a priest. (42:45) Canon Law: Fr. Sal shares about his important role in the Archdiocese of Detroit. He shares what canon law is, what it looks like to study it, and how he helps the Church in this position. “God is fulfilling a desire I always had, but in the way He always planned for me.” Fr. Craig shares, “Sometimes people think ‘if I join the priesthood, I’ll lose everything of myself.’ But really, I’ll become who I’m supposed to be.” The episode closes with Fr. Sal sharing some advice to men discerning the priesthood: “Giving time to discerning your vocation is pleasing to God, because it puts the focus of your life on Him and your faith is going to grow… it’s not time wasted. There’s no loss in discernment.”

“Marriage is good. And priesthood is good. And how do you choose between two goods? God will guide you if you faithfully seek him out.” Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. David Pellican are joined by Fr. David Pellican's brother-in-law Mr. John Pratt to discuss discerning a vocation. John considered the priesthood from an early age, but felt the Lord draw him toward marriage. His insights into prayer, desire for true fulfillment and the surrender to God’s will are inspiring. (00:03) Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. David Pellican welcome us to this episode of Men of the Hearts. This episode’s guest is Mr. John Pratt, brother-in-law of Fr. David Pellican. They discuss the most recent episode, and current joys. The discussion moves toward encountering beauty and how art can powerfully move us. (12:08) Mr. John Pratt shares how his siblings and parents shaped him in his youth. He points to living a liturgical life, and playing sports as impactful. John shares that he experienced scrupulosity and OCD in his early years. Throughout this time, he felt that being a priest would be the holiest decision for him. His time at the University of Notre Dame was formative. He went on to serve in a parish in Ann Arbor, Michigan following college. (23:22) Our hosts and guest discuss John’s attitudes toward the priesthood throughout adolescence. “In high school and college, was the thought of priesthood there?” They discuss John’s prayer life in college, and how he lived a relationship with God growing up. They discuss the importance of Adoration and spending time with Jesus. “Go find the Lord and you’ll find your specific vocation.” John attended World Youth Day and felt an openness to whatever God wanted for his life.(35:55) Priesthood & the vocation to Marriage: John shares about meeting his future wife, and the role his spiritual director played in discerning dating. They discuss what dating looked like. “Bringing it into the light, having a spiritual director, and praying about it’ are three powerful ways John Pratt felt the Lord direct him toward marriage and not to the priesthood. ‘I don’t ask myself, is this worth it?” (55:00) Holiness in marriage: “More than happiness and pleasure, I wanted meaning in life.” John shares how his vocation as a husband and father has purified him and made him more surrendered to God’s will. “The vocation of marriage… there’s meaning and fulfillment in it, even if there is the Cross.” Even now as a husband and father, he feels God continue to draw him into new holiness: “What is the more you’re calling me to, God?” John closes the discussion with a reflection on the confidence he has that God made him for marriage and the power of living the call God has for him: “The Lord used the vocation of marriage to heal a lot of my anxiety. He’s used my wife and my vocation as a way of healing me in a truly incredible way.”

“I thought my life was going to end when I entered seminary, but it really began once I got there.” Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. David Pellican are joined by Fr. J.J. Mech, rector at Detroit’s Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament. Together, they discuss the role of art in our churches and encountering the Lord. Fr. J.J. shares his vocation story, his parent’s reaction to him entering seminary, and how he’s been fulfilled and filled with joy in his vocation as a priest. (00:03) Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. David Pellican welcome us to this episode of Men of the Hearts. This episode’s guest Fr. J.J. Mech is the rector of the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament in Detroit. Fr. J.J. has a great love of art and does many types of creative expressions including sculpting and painting. He says, “I discover the Lord through art.” He discusses the power of praying with art, and how he’s brought a vision for the role of art to the Cathedral. (24:34) Fr. J.J. is invited to share his vocation story. Though attracted to discerning, in college Fr. J.J. kept his discernment hidden from others, even telling people he was at the library when he went to visit the seminary. As a college student at Michigan State, he made the decision to transfer to the seminary. He tells the story of telling his parents that he would be entering seminary. His father was deeply moved and began crying. His mother said, “I knew there was a reason you lived,” referencing his very premature birth. (37:22) “We’re all called. It doesn’t matter who we are, we’re all called.” Fr. J.J. shares a reflection on how the priesthood is filled with men of diverse backgrounds, gifts, and personalities. Early on in his discernment of the priesthood, he felt that he didn’t fit the mold; Fr. J.J. felt unimportant compared to the priest in the sanctuary, “That’s not me.” However, he can see now how God utilizes his gifts in the priesthood, how God calls different types of men, and that God wanted him to be a priest, just as he is. (41:18) The hosts and guests discuss the role of parental approval in the process of discerning the priesthood. “Parents always want what's best for their kids, but sometimes, parents can’t see how you could be really happy or fulfilled doing it (serving as a priest). Sometimes that leads parents to be initially concerned.” They discuss how the priesthood is a sacrifice, but it’s one worth making: “You’re gonna make a sacrifice somewhere in life; have that sacrifice chosen with God, instead of the sacrifice just heaped upon you. Everybody has to go through some type of cross.” Fr. Giera shares, “What we really need right now, we need more priests. God needs you, and we need you.” (51:20) “If there are young men listening who are thinking about the priesthood, considering a call, what advice would you give them?” Our guest Fr. J.J. gives a powerful reflection: “Talk to a priest, to someone who can help you… Be yourself. Continually pray. Ask the Holy Spirit to give you guidance, and he will lay it out for you. Don’t do it alone.” The episode is closed in prayer.

“It’s not about what you do, it’s about who you are.” Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. David Pellican are joined by Fr. Cy Whitaker, S.J. This powerful discussion covers the early seeds of a vocation in Fr. Cy’s childhood, the loss of his father, joining the Jesuits at age 40, and his role as a spiritual director at Sacred Heart Major Seminary. Be inspired as Fr. Cy describes the priest’s identity as more important than the work he does and as he offers encouragement to all men discerning.(00:03) Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. David Pellican welcome us to this episode of Men of the Hearts. This episode’s guest, Fr. Cy Whitaker, S.J., and our hosts discuss what they’ve been up to recently. They also talk about the origin of Fr. Cy’s name and family history. (9:17) Fr. Cy shares his vocation story. As a child, he only thought about being a priest or a teacher when he grew up. Many priests and teachers told him they thought that young Cy had a vocation to the priesthood. Fr. Cy shares the powerful story of how the Scapular impacted his father’s life. After his father’s death, which was weeks before Fr. Cy’s college graduation, he became a teacher and taught for 22 years. (24:21) At age 40, Fr. Cy called the vocation director for the Jesuits. He describes how he discerned being a priest in a religious order. He explains what a novitiate is, and what discernment with the Jesuits looks like. He also details the Jesuits vows and the two types of priests within the Jesuit order. (34:44) “How did you end up at the seminary?” Fr. Cy has been a spiritual director at the seminary for 6 years. He describes what a spiritual director is and what his days look like in this role. He shares that spiritual direction is an intimate and personal space to aid seminarians in processing the transitions in seminary. It is an opportunity for seminarians to be led in prayer in their discernment. (41:05) The Sacrament of the present moment: “Be here now.” Fr. Cy shares that God reveals himself to us as “I am” and not as “I was.” That God is found in the present moment, and how this wisdom helps men encounter God. He says the framework of, “Living my life as a response of love to the Love that loved me first” has been powerful for him. He encourages seminarians and men discerning the priesthood to do the same. (49:45) Advice to men who are discerning: “Be open to the possibilities of what God wants for you.” And “What’s the next right step for you?” Fr. Cy shares, “Even if you came here (seminary) and discern out, you’ll be a better man for it. And if you stay, you’ll have one of the most exciting jobs in the world.” Fr. Cy underlines the importance of the priestly identity: “it’s not about what you do, it’s about who you are.” Fr. Cy closes in a powerful prayer for the listeners, calling on the Blessed Mother as Mother of Priests.

“Find Jesus in the Eucharist. If you want to know what God wants, go to Him.” Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. David Pellican are joined by Fr. Perrin Atisha who shares his journey to ordination at age 26 for the Chaldean Eparchy of St. Thomas the Apostle. Through a powerful retreat in high school, time in Eucharistic Adoration, his father’s approval of his vocation, and a trip to Iraq, God showed Fr. Perrin that he was called to the priesthood. Now Director of Vocations, Fr. Perrin gives valuable insight into the heart of a priest and discernment 101. “We don’t need perfect men. We need men who are in love with God.” (00:03) Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. David Pellican welcome us to this episode of Men of the Hearts. This episode’s guest serves as the Director of Vocations for the Chaldean Eparchy of St. Thomas the Apostle. He recently attended a national conference for vocation directors. Fr. David shares that he has finally finished remodeling a private chapel in the Divine Child rectory. (9:09) Fr. Perrin shares his vocation story: He has two brothers and a sister, and they were raised as devout Chaldean Catholics. At age five, Fr. Perrin started altar serving and, a year later, told his mother, “I want to do what the priest does.” But in high school, he fell into “living a double life.” He describes it as, “I wasn’t truly living for the Lord.” In Mass, he marveled at the priesthood and felt a desire to pursuing a priestly vocation. But outside of Mass, he felt “distracted by the world.” (16:40) A Kairos Retreat in high school changed Fr. Perrin’s relationship with God. And in the Eucharistic Adoration chapel at his high school, Fr. Perrin experienced “the presence of God” as he began to visit the chapel during his lunch period. Later at Wayne State University, a priest welcomed him to the Newman Center with such intentionality and joy, and he was drawn into college ministry even leading Bible studies. After feeling ready to enter seminary after college, he was asked to wait a year. While hurt and angry then, he looks back and says, “If I didn’t have that year, I don’t think I would be a priest.” (32:02) Prayer life in discernment: Fr. Perrin attended Eucharistic Adoration daily and Mass during the week. He also prayed with scripture regularly and read the lives of the saints. Fr. Perrin shares how he overcame struggles with his father’s attitude towards him pursuing a priestly vocation. He felt the time he most struggled with his vocation was between the time he was accepted into seminary and the time he entered. He can see in retrospect that those doubts for himself and his vocation were not from God but from the evil one. (44:16) Adjustments in the seminary: Fr. Perrin shares how his relationship with his father and mother changed as he journeyed through seminary. His father grew in approval of his vocation and their relationship improved, and his mother grew in allowing Fr. Perrin to have independence in his discernment. “Just because there are struggles, doesn’t mean God isn’t calling us.” (51:42) Ordination: “I always knew I would love being a priest, but I didn’t know it would be this beautiful.” He shares that the theme of his priesthood is, “God takes care of me.” He enjoys offering Mass and preaching. He talks about his discernment deciding whether to become a Chaldean or a Roman Rite priest and what went into making his decision, especially a trip to Iraq in 2017. Fr. Perrin offers some advice to men discerning, “Find Jesus in the Eucharist. If you want to know what God wants, go to Him. Be in love with the Lord.” He closes the episode in prayer. Links from this episode:Eparchy of St. Thomas the Apostle Vocations

“Never be afraid to accept your vocation. Because God will supply what we need.” Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. David Pellican are joined by Fr. Matthew Hood. Together they discuss Fr. Matt’s journey from asking big questions about the Faith in high school to being ordained a priest. After spending eight years in seminary, Fr. Matt has served the Archdiocese of Detroit in parish and school ministry. He offers advice for men discerning: “If God has given you even the smallest desire for the priesthood, pursue it. That doesn't happen often.” (00:03) Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. David Pellican welcome us to this episode of Men of the Hearts. This month’s guest is Fr. Matthew Hood, the chaplain for Detroit Catholic Campus Ministry which serves Wayne State University and the University of Michigan – Dearborn as well as the surrounding campuses. He shares about his summer abroad in Brazil on a mission trip with FOCUS, Fellowship of Catholic University Students.(10:40) The Costco King: the hosts and Fr. Matt play a game related to opinions about Costco. Fr. Craig announces the winner of the competition will be announced at the end of the episode. (16:33) Fr. Matt’s vocation story: In high school, Fr. Matt found himself asking many big questions about faith while attending St. Joseph Parish in Lake Orion. He found that the Catholic Church offered the answers to every question he proposed in a more profound manner, allowing him to trust and surrender. He began to desire not just to know God but also to develop a relationship with Him. Spending time in the local Eucharistic Adoration chapel is where he first felt a desire for the priesthood. (20:15) While before the Lord in Eucharistic Adoration, Fr. Matt began praying with Scripture, particularly the passage of Jesus calling the disciples on the Sea of Galilee in which he felt the Lord telling him “To follow Him, throw down my nets, put out into the deep” as a priest. But he pushed the thought to the side. (25:51) From questions to his vocation: Fr. Matt explains in more detail the journey from asking questions to considering the priesthood. In encountering Jesus as the Way, the Truth, and the Life, he felt the Lord kept placing the call to the priesthood on his heart. Fr. Matt enrolled at Central Michigan University his freshmen year and participated in Catholic Campus Ministry which helped to further confirm his vocation to the priesthood. (31:34) The process of entering seminary: joy, friendship, and fraternity played a pivotal role for Fr. Matt. He applied and was accepted to the seminary, where he found the first year challenging. He was tempted to feel “I’m not holy enough, I’m not worthy enough.” He was challenged by doubts and an experience of feeling undeserving of the priesthood. (43:25) Life as a priest: The priests talk about Fr. Matt’s experience of working at Divine Child parish and school. He then describes how he lives out his priesthood walking with college students, including hosting events for exploring the Faith and deepening one’s conversion. Fr. Matt recommends finding a priest as a spiritual director to help guide a man considering a vocation to the priesthood. “What might be the next step?” They discuss key advice for how to discern if God is calling a man to the priesthood. “God speaks to us in silence. If there is a small desire for priesthood, pay attention to it, have courage, don’t be afraid, and seek it.” Fr. Matt closes the episode in prayer.