It is a tranquil morning at Seton Hall. As dawn breaks and the birds begin to chirp, the bells chime, creating a euphonious harmony of sounds.
For some students at SHU, the melodious ringing of the bells is more than just background music for their walk to class or morning wake-up call; it is a reminder that they have been called to something bigger than themselves—something that drives them to sacrifice countless hours, experiences, and pleasures for what they say is the greater good: priesthood.
For those who wonder what it is like to be on the path to priesthood at SHU, students Victor Parraga and Konrad Kosiek give insight into their journey.
Parraga, a Catholic theology major, is a first-year seminary student, while Kosiek is in his ninth year at SHU studying pastoral ministry. Both are studying at the university’s Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology (ICS).
Both Parraga and Kosiek said that they agree that priesthood is not just a choice, it is a calling. It begins with conviction, then a discerning process, according to the students.
Parraga said that God had a different calling than the path he had originally wanted to follow: becoming a doctor. He said he knew God was calling him to the priesthood and gave Parraga a sign to gain clarity.
“I started a novena to Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, who is known for sending roses as a sign from Heaven. I finished the prayer, and I was driving while in complete mental distress about becoming a doctor or a priest,” Parraga said. “The car came to a stop, and I looked to the right, and right there was a board [a person personified as a dove] of the Holy Spirit, underneath it a rose.”
After this, he knew that becoming a priest was the path he was supposed to go down, according to Parraga. He then came to SHU to continue down this path.
He also said that a strong, friendly, Catholic community is what is helping him on his journey here at SHU. He sees that the university is fostering growth both for himself and for non-seminarians.
The courses are also a highlight of what makes SHU’s seminary stand out, according to Fr. Doug Milewski, an associate professor of undergraduate theology in the seminary. He said that SHU’s seminary is unique because the seminary has professionally trained faculty in a broad range of topics from many different backgrounds.
Milewski encourages students to take theology courses and to use their electives to have a new learning experience.
“Theology courses were created for all students, not just those who are becoming priests,” Milewski said. “Use your electives wisely.”
Parraga said SHU has given him the opportunity to help those who are in the process of discerning their vocation by sharing his story.
“I remember being in that same position, so it’s a really beautiful thing to see the roles switch now when I’m there speaking to them,” Parraga said.
Kosiek also discussed the opportunities he said God has given him at SHU.
“Everything I have is a means to reach others for Christ,” Kosiek said. “Bring Christ to others and others to Christ.”
Kosiek added that this is his desire as he enters the priesthood.
Priesthood comes with sacrifice for many, including Kosiek. He said that one of the greatest sacrifices when going into the priesthood is marriage and having a family. But for Parraga, the sacrifices he has made are for something more important.
“I love my hair,” Parraga said. “I’ve always had long, curly hair, but for the seminary, I had to cut it for a clean-cut look. But, you know, that’s a sacrifice, one of many, that I’m willing to make for Jesus.”
Seminarians strive to reflect the love of God, according to Parraga.
“I want people to look at [the seminarians] and see figures of love and peace, and not as any form of hate or indifference,” he said.
Milewski said to always question your assumptions about people like seminarians.
“Catholics should prepare to stand strong in faith and to face questions,” Milewski said. “Show other people respect, even if it is just to show God respect because we are made in his image.”
Kosiek said that it is important to be around people who have different beliefs.
“God places so many people in your life from so many walks of life, and to be with all of these people is a blessing,” Kosiek said.
Parraga emphasized that seminarians are still people at the end of the day.
“Don’t be scared of coming up to us because we’re people just like you guys,” Parraga said.
Lakyn Austin is a writer for The Setonian’s News section. She can be reached at lakyn.austin@student.shu.edu.
