Though I won’t tell the full story here, the Lord, through his grace, moved me to make a personal decision of faith — turning my parents’ faith into my own. This retreat also took place in Jackson, at what is now Bethany Care Home, which — fast-forward several years — is the same city I now live in as chaplain of Lumen Christi High School. Talk about providence!

And only five months into my first year as chaplain, I can truly say that I love being a high school chaplain. While I am still in the process of learning everyone’s names and what a typical year is like at Lumen, the process has been a joyous one.

One definite reason is because of the welcoming staff and community around me, which has made the transition from parish life to high school ministry so much smoother.

During my time here, I have been feeling God’s heart for all the students. Whether it’s greeting the students in the morning, doing morning announcements, being present at their sporting events and other extracurriculars, and, of course, celebrating the sacraments and helping lead retreats. I enjoy all of it. And I know that this love and joy I have is not just my own, but God’s heart that delights in his children.

I am learning what it means to be a spiritual father in this new assignment. Despite my weakness and imperfections, I pray that through my priestly ministry all the students can catch a glimpse of how loved they are by God.

Of course, your prayers are a key component to the students’ encounter with Jesus. Please continue to pray for me and all priests of the diocese, that we may be good and holy priests. Pray for Lumen Christi and all our Catholic schools in the Diocese of Lansing, that God may be glorified and that all the students may come to know the one who loves them deeply — their heavenly Father!