“Spending time with the children brings me much joy”

How has it been going so far?
It has certainly been an adjustment for me, settling into a new rhythm of life and new routines at my parish, but I also find myself quite comfortable in my ministry as I draw from previous experiences, especially from my time as a hospital chaplain at Spohn Shoreline and my time with Most Precious Blood Catholic School.
 
Was there something you didn’t expect?
It is incredibly humbling to witness the absolute trust and openness that people bring with them into the confessional, as they lay everything out in the light and re-commit their lives back to the Lord through my ministry in that moment, as I stand for them in the person of Christ himself.
 
During your first few months of ministry, what has been the easiest part for you? What brings you the most joy?
The easiest part for me is celebrating the Holy Mass, because I have wanted to do just that since I was a little boy, and I have become increasingly familiar with the celebration of the Eucharist through my own participation in it over the years. Something that brings me much joy is my time spent with the children and families here at St. Patrick's Catholic School.
 
Is there anything you still need to get used to?
I continue to see a need in my ministry for better focus on time management, as I have been unsuccessful in my efforts at bi-location, which means I can't be in multiple places at the same time…