THE STORY OF A VOCATION TO DEDICATED CHURCH
SERVICE
Manny Bravo
I am
answering the vocation to seminary studies in order to become a diocesan
priest. I expect a challenge, since I am not used to studying
theological and philosophical subjects. I am used to analytical,
objective and scientific subjects (mechanical engineering). It will be
very exciting to be challenged in different ways. I am particularly
excited about learning more
about my Catholic faith while in the seminary.
I
am blessed to receive the call to become a Catholic priest. I have
always felt that it is good to be a little anxious when taking a step
(and I am). I truly cannot say that I know what to expect. I have always
had a desire to become a priest and now feel that the Lord wanted me to
wait until I was spiritually mature enough. The wait has taught me to
understand more clearly the suffering of others. It has taught me to
communicate with people and to thrive on their journeys and insights. It
has taught me the importance of responsibility and commitment. I have
learned how my sins affect not just me, but others and the whole world.
I have grown to love the Catholic Church and her traditions as they help
me to develop my relationship with Christ.
The
priestly life is serving the community. This will surely be very
challenging and fulfilling. It seems that most of my Christian life I
have been drawn to becoming a priest. I have spent time with the
Dominicans, Brothers of Charity, Lay Mission Helpers and Franciscans. I
have grown to love to be around people that love the Lord. My favorite
prayer request is for Christian fellowship. God answered this prayer by
bringing me to Christian community of Our Lady of Refuge (OLR). I cannot
thank OLR enough for the spiritual and physical support I have received.
All the relationships that our Lord has brought to me through OLR have
made a dramatic impact on my life. They have introduced me to another
part of Jesus that I would not have recognized on my own. I want to
serve the community.
Praise Jesus!
Manny Bravo
THE STORY OF OUR PARISH
