Editor's note: This is the second in a periodic series spotlighting those in formation for priesthood at St. John's Seminary in Camarillo.
I am a cradle Catholic, born into the faith which was a defining reality of my growing up years in Manila. But as is true for most things given in one's life, I took my faith for granted. I received the sacraments without fully appreciating their full import.
Through the "Life in the Spirit Seminars" in 1983, I rediscovered my faith. This renewed zeal manifested itself in my involvement in youth ministry. People recognized my gifts for speaking in public, for exhortation and forming communities, and they suggested I consider the priesthood. I shrugged off those remarks, believing I was called to do something "bigger."
I arrived in the U.S. in 1987 to work for a hospital in downtown L.A. as an occupational therapist (OT). I got involved in leadership positions in my profession and completed my Master of Arts degree from USC, which opened for me exciting opportunities and possibilities both professionally and personally. I joined the clinical faculty of USC, and later on helped to establish the OT program at California State University, Dominguez Hills, along with other professionals --- the first of its kind in the Cal State University System.
In spite of all this, I felt an indefinable longing for something lasting and profound. As an occupational therapist, I have had the privilege of working with people from all backgrounds --- from Hollywood directors and actors to CEOs, from undocumented immigrants to gang members. I came to realize that regardless of backgrounds, people are essentially good; we all share a deep hunger to be loved and our needs ministered to.
I came to appreciate the "holiness" of my work in helping rehabilitate people to physical wholeness, yet I never was able to touch the deepest hunger and brokenness of their souls. That is the privileged role of the priest by the nature and exercise of his office. With this realization I sought the help of Sister Kathy Bryant and Father Richard Martini at the Office of Vocations. They helped me immensely through the process of prayerful discernment of God's will in my life.
I have come to say "yes" to the Lord's invitation to study for the priesthood and am in my third year at St. John's Seminary. Currently, I am an intern at St. John of God in Norwalk under the supervision of Msgr. Bernard Leheny, pastor. It is such a gift and a privilege to be nurtured, supported, affirmed and challenged by the people of God in whose midst the Spirit is alive and moving. The 13 men in my class (studying for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles) are all great support for me as I enter ever deeper into the mystery of my call.
All of my experiences as a seminarian thus far have been most enriching and life-giving for me. I am humbled and at the same time, grateful. It is good to be here. |