Reflecting on my life, I now see that the signs of discernment were always present, though I often ignored them. It wasn’t until my baptism and confirmation three years ago that I began to take discernment seriously. Growing up agnostic and later embracing Buddhism in my early twenties, my life took a transformative turn when an encounter with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament profoundly changed me. I was fortunate to have a Newman Center at my parish and supportive friends to guide me through discernment, but I still felt something was missing.
During a discernment group hosted by the Los Angeles vocations team, the associate vocation director asked me if I would like to participate in the Higher Calling program. Initially, the idea was intimidating. Being part of a group of discerners from across the country seemed daunting, especially as a recent convert. I worried that others might be on different levels of holiness, making it hard for me to connect. The professors and classes, touching on topics like celibacy and chastity, also seemed overwhelming.
However, my fears proved unfounded. I soon discovered that the Higher Calling program brought together individuals facing similar struggles, fears, and uncertainties as my own. As a recent convert, I deeply appreciated the classes on liturgy and apologetics, though my favorite sessions were on spirituality. The program encouraged me to aspire not just to the priesthood but to a life of sanctity and holiness. It also helped me confront and overcome personal issues, detach from vices, and align myself with God’s will.
Through the program, I experienced healing from wounds and emotional challenges. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities Higher Calling provided—not just in preparing for seminary but, more importantly, in helping me grow in holiness as a beloved child of God.