In June 2010 at our Mother Church, The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, five men were ordained as priests of our diocese. This was the largest number of men to be ordained since 1984. All come from uniquely different backgrounds. One man, Fr. Quy Vo was born in Vietnam, another was a professor of acoustical engineering, while another worked in the insurance industry. What they all share is a calling and a desire to serve God’s people in the priesthood of Jesus Christ.

Today, nearly a year after ordination, each has worked in his first parish assignment. In past Bishop’s Appeal campaigns we have written about these men as seminarians. The Bishop’s Appeal, in part, helped support their quest to fulfill their vocation to the priesthood.

Now they are priests, how has life changed?

“While years of seminary studies are necessary in order to become a priest, I feel much more fulfilled when I spend a day celebrating Mass, visiting the sick and the elderly, working on a parish project, being involved in a youth ministry event, and doing things of that nature rather than living the life of a full-time student.”
Father Matt Wetsel, St. Peter’s Church, Saratoga Springs

“You meet people at the crossroads of their lives. Whether it is the joy of a wedding or baptism, First Communion or Confirmation, the sadness of a funeral, or the peace of an anointing; as priest you meet people at life’s intersections and walk with them as far as you are able. That, for me, is so humbling, gratifying and peaceful, just being in the still of the moment at these critical junctures of life.”
Fr. Dan Ryan, St. Paul the Apostle Church, Schenectady

“In a very real way, celebrating the Sacraments has had the greatest impact on my life. I now see myself as one whose identity, role, and purpose are that of a minister, speaking and acting on behalf of Jesus Christ and His Church as I encounter those in need. It is still very intimidating at times, preparing for funerals, visiting the sick and dying, speaking with couples preparing for marriage, celebrating Sunday Mass in front of hundreds of people. The words I speak now have the potential to impact so many, it is a very real responsibility. But these pressures move me to prayer, to a deeper reliance on God, and a trust that He will somehow speak through me, through my limitations as well as my gifts.”
Fr. David Hammond, Our Lady Queen of Peace Church, Rotterdam

The Vocations Office of the Diocese of Albany is funded completely by the Bishop’s Appeal. Your gift will help to nurture and empower those, like these newly ordained men, who are called by the Lord Jesus to serve His people.

If you have questions concerning vocations to the priesthood or consecrated life please call
(518) 453-6690.