A vocation, growing gradually

In a few days, the hour will arrive that Deacon Jim Craig has been preparing for a long time. When Bishop Mulvey lays his hands on him and ordains him as a priest, Deacon Jim has yearned for this moment since he was young. “It was a gradual growth,” he says. “When I was 8 years old and made my First Communion, I felt a connection to Jesus. Being an altar server, the wish inside me to become a priest just kept getting stronger.”
 
When he turned 18, he was pretty sure he wanted to enter the seminary. He studied Philosophy at Franciscan University in Steubenville, Ohio, covering some necessary classes. However, it wasn’t until his senior year in college that he made his desire public. At that time, the vocation director was Fr. Romeo Salinas; after he graduated, Bob Cummings accompanied him throughout his formation.
 
He studied at St. Mary’s Seminary in Houston and Assumption Seminary in San Antonio. Did he ever doubt his choice and calling? “I don’t recall doubt, but times of testing,” he answered. “Wrestling with myself, questioning my own commitment – I asked myself, can I do this, how can I respond?”
 
His family was very supportive, “but my parents would have supported me whatever I had decided following God’s will.” He is the second youngest of seven children, and even though he has been sure of his vocation for a long time, he is the last to commit himself fully: “Five of my siblings are married, and one sister entered the SOLT community.” He already has twelve nieces and nephews, with the thirteenth on the way.
 
Along with his vocation as a priest, his desire to become a military chaplain grew. “My dad was in the military, and as a teenager, I was struck by the great need for priests.” He has already reached out to the Archdiocese of the Military Services and maintains the physical fitness requirements, which are not a big hurdle for him: “I love sports, especially team sports,” he says. He ran track and field in college and enjoys playing volleyball, basketball, soccer, and pickleball. “I was part of many friendly competitions in the seminary.” Deacon Jim is also a skilled dancer and tap dancer. Board games and card games are other pastimes he loves – again, in friendly competition.
 
During his studies, he enjoyed Moral Theology and Sacramental Theology. He states, “The Eucharistic classes were excellent, especially one on the History and Development of the Roman Rite.” Many classes contributed to his growth and personal formation. 
 
However, he now looks forward to his studies ending: “I look forward to being directly involved in the diocese and ministry, especially with youth and young adults.” Even though his family doesn’t have Hispanic roots, he can celebrate Mass and preach in Spanish.