1. Who is one of your favorite saints and why?

I have had a strong devotion to St. John Vianney since a very young age. Through his simple vocation as a priest in the tiny town of Ars, he brought crowds of people into the church during his lifetime. Thousands of pilgrims flocked to the tiny town just to see one priest. What was so special about Fr. John Vianney? He served as a priest in a simple, humble, and servile way. His holiness was so profound, and it is proven by all the people that were attracted to it.

2. What is your favorite Scripture verse and why?

"Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form he humbled himself and became obedient unto death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." -Philippians 2:5-11

This passage beautifully portrays the Incarnation by expressing the length Christ will go and how low He will humble Himself just to be with us. The paradox Paul exhibits is that Jesus is exalted for His humility.

3. What are your favorite things to do in your spare time?

I like to spend my time at the beach whether it is swimming, sailing, or camping. Otherwise, I am often found in my shop working on various art projects.

4. What attracts you to the idea of serving the Lord and the Church in Northern Wisconsin?

There is a great need for priests in the Diocese of Superior not only to serve the many, dispersed Catholics but to serve them well and with vigor.

5. What advice would you give to a young man discerning his vocation?

I would relay to them the wisdom of St. John Henry Newman: "Lead Thou me on. Keep Thou my feet; I do not ask to see the distant scene; one step enough for me."

6. Who influenced you the most to think about the priesthood?

As I grew up, I witnessed the journey of Fr. Samuel Schneider to the priesthood since he was a seminarian. He visited my house every once in a while, and I watched him get ordained.

7. What is your favorite deli meat on a sandwich?

Most definitely roast beef.

8. Before entering seminary, what was your dream job?

In third grade, I wanted to be an astronomer.

9. You’re stranded on a deserted island and can only watch one movie. You press play, and what comes on?

I would watch Elf for motivation to stay positive, though if I were stranded, I don't think I would sit down to watch a movie.