📬 Keaton’s Question:
“Will the reality of a U.S. Pope, who’s served abroad but was shaped in America, help inspire young men to consider the priesthood?”
🎙️ Patrick’s Response: “I really hope so and believe that could happen!” 🙏
👨👦Family Ties to the Seminary
All four of Patrick’s sons discerned the priesthood; they spent time in seminary before eventually choosing marriage.
So, Patrick understands the real-life discernment process: the pull between the altar and the altar rail.
📚 Academic + Formation Insider
Patrick went back to school later in life and studied at a major seminary, sitting alongside seminarians in class.
He’s also on the Board of Directors of a seminary, so he sees the vocation process from every angle… from books to brotherhood.
✝️ History Repeats: The JP2 Effect
He draws a beautiful parallel to Pope Saint John Paul II:
So many priests (and bishops!) today trace their vocation stories back to seeing JP2… maybe at World Youth Day.
They became priests because they saw a Pope who inspired them to think: “I want to be like him.”
Key idea: Vocation is contagious, especially when modeled in someone relatable and holy.
👀 Hope for the Leo XIV Generation?
Patrick says Pope Leo XIV seems:
-Young ✔️
-Vibrant but humble ✔️
-Not flashy, but authentic ✔️
That combination just might light the spark for a new generation of American men to say “yes” to Christ.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if Pope Leo XIV becomes a catalyst,” Patrick says. “I hope he is.”
So… Will More American Guys Become Priests?
Maybe. Hopefully.
Patrick believes young men are watching. And when they see someone like them become Pope, Midwest roots and all, they might just imagine a bigger, braver life with Christ.
And hey, say a prayer today for your priest, and maybe for a guy you know who might just be called.
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