When the young men are considering entering the seminary, they can attend an open house. In Stephen’s senior year of high school, we attended the open house. There are a lot of details that are faded in my mind already. This was, after all, 6 years ago and I can barely remember one year ago.
One thing I remember very clearly, though. The rector (now, one of our auxiliary bishops) said to us, “In this house, the men are all brothers and I am their Papa.” He instilled in them that sense of brotherhood, something I think is very important & I see evidence of this whenever I see the seminarians together.
God willing, in 3 years, my son will be ordained. But even if he’s not, I am so proud of him for even considering this life. Equally, I am proud of all these men. In a world that seems increasingly self absorbed and selfish, they are willing to sacrifice their entire lives in the service of others. Our lives have been so blessed simply by knowing them.
I’m not catholic and I don’t really understand all of this, but I can tell how proud you are of Stephen and all of the boys. They all must be wonderful boys.
It was a long time past now but my brother was in seminary for several years and I remember how proud my parents were. I can ‘feel’ the same sense of honor and privilege when I read your words.
The world would be far poorer without the men and women who are called to work for the benefit of all. In whatever ways they choose.
Stephen is a fine young man. And you and Frank have every right to be darn proud.