Dcn. Andrew Schmidt

Birthdate: May 19th, 1997

Home Parish: St. Joseph, St. Joseph

Why did you become a seminarian: I became a seminarian because I felt the Lord might be calling me, and had the desire within myself, to be a priest! Most deeply, I want to bring others to the peace and love of Christ and the way I feel called to do that is through the priesthood.

What is an interesting fact about you: I have flown a plane solo! Before seminary, I had the chance to take some flying lessons from my grandfather who is a pilot, and that was a really unique and memorable experience!

Who is your favorite Saint and why: t's so tough to choose one! I really like St. Ignatius of Loyola because of the 30-day silent retreat he created that I had the chance to go on myself last year. It was one of the best experiences of my time in seminary! I have also found his rules for the discernment of spirits to be incredibly helpful in looking at the ups and downs of my spiritual life. I'm so grateful for his spiritual wisdom and example!

What advice would you give to someone discerning the priesthood: You don't have to be sure you are called to the priesthood in order to apply for seminary. Seminary is the necessary "middle step" between a possible call and the priesthood, and I'm glad it's there, because it has given me a chance to grow in many ways and really see if this is the life God wants for me. This time in seminary, while not always easy, has been blessed in many ways and I'm so grateful for having the opportunity to be here, studying and growing.

Please keep Andrew in your prayers!