I had the blessing of growing up in a family that was filled with a lot of love and support.  My family was close.  I have four siblings, one brother and three sisters; all older than I.  They are all married and have kids.  I have twelve nephews and nieces.  My parents and family regularly attended church and prayed together. I went to Catholic grade school and high school.  I was a mediocre student/athlete at best with about a 2.3 grade point average.  I played a few sports such as wrestling and football.  In college, at Franciscan University, I received a bachelor's degree in English and had about a 2.5 gpa.  My health is adequate except for many joint problems from athletic injuries.  It was not until college that I started to consider a vocation to the priesthood.  I dated a few girls and had a good experience dating yet I felt perhaps that I was called to something difference.  I prayed about it.  I became more involved in ministries such as working with the Pontiac Rescue Mission in Michigan (they work with the homeless in particular those struggling with addictions) and the youth group at St. Irenaeus (where I worked with Habitat for the Homeless).
     At Christ the King Seminary, I was able to work in hospital ministry with Father Richard Augustine at Buffalo General.  He was very helpful and supportive.  He challenged me to be a good listener and to be empathetic toward patients.  I have worked with VIVE, a refugee camp that helps enable refugees to be accepted across the border into Canada.  My supervisor, Terri Mazza helped me to see the difficult plight of the immigrants and the many benefits we take for granted that they would love to enjoy.
     Finally, I was able to grow in wonder at the mystery of Jesus and the Gospel.  I was able to study Church teaching, Philosophy and grow in formation with my brother seminarians.  I have been able to grow in my prayer life and spirituality as well as concern for those who are marginalized.  At the Seminary my grades have improved to a 3.0 gpa.  I have a renewed interest in meditating on the Bible and in trying my best to live out the fruits of that meditation in action.