My Vocations Journey: First Steps

Dear Readers,

I am excited to share a significant update on my journey of faith. For some time now, I have felt a calling from the Lord to discern the priesthood in His Holy Church. After much encouragement from Fr. Juan, our newest Parochial Vicar, I reached out to the Diocese of Norwich to take the next steps in this discernment process.

The journey has not been without its challenges, particularly with recent transitions in the vocations office staff. However, I was finally able to connect with the Diocese's new Vocations Director, Fr. Jeffrey R. Ellis. Until recently, Fr. Ellis served as the Parochial Vicar at St. Michael Parish in Pawcatuck, which is also the home parish of my late Parochial Vicar, Fr. George Richards.

Fr. Ellis and I met for dinner at a local diner, where we had an in-depth conversation about my call to the priesthood, my family background, and various aspects of the vocations journey. He recommended a podcast to help deepen my understanding and suggested a few areas for personal growth. Among them, he encouraged me to complete my undergraduate degree—which I am on track to finish this May—and to continue working toward obtaining my driver’s license. While I currently have a learner’s permit, I still need more practice behind the wheel.

As I continue on this path of discernment, I humbly ask for your prayers and support. This is a journey I approach with faith and hope, and I am eager to see where the Lord leads me.

In Christ,
Anthony



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