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

Pope St. John Paul II: His love for the youth and constant want to build and convert the Church is inspiring. The amount of writings and teachings he gave the Church is still producing fruit to this day. (Though to be honest If I could pick two/three, I would want to include St. Faustina and St. Thérèse of Lisieux. Both of their witnesses to God's love are amazing; especially their mission in sharing the truth of God's abundant mercy.)

2. What is your favorite Scripture verse and why?

"So he got up and went back to his father. While he was still a long way off, his father caught sight of him, and was filled with compassion. He ran to his son, embraced him and kissed him." - Luke 15:20

It reveals the heart of God. His desire to seek us out. His desire to stay and keep watch every second waiting for us to return to him. He doesn't pour out his love when "we earn it" or when "we are perfectly contrite," but he pours it out constantly and eagerly desires our closeness. At the mere sight of an act of repentance, God comes running with open arms. He does not scold his son but kisses him and welcomes him back to himself. As the story continues, the Father reveals why he is so eager: "This son of mine was dead, and has come to life again."

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

I enjoy studying chess, sketching, hiking, and astronomy. But my most favorite thing to do is to have a beach fire on the shore of Lake Superior with friends.

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

Service to my home and community: This is where I grew up, I love this area, and the people here are my family and friends.

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

Whatever the Lord has in store for you, it will be the most beautiful thing you could ever experience. Do not be afraid to run to him. He does not have plans for your downfall, but for your benefit. The Lord loves you deeply; believe it.

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

Jesus of Nazareth, the Christ. Besides that, I don't think one person influenced me, but rather the combination of many people, including my parish priests, my father, JPII, and many other saints.

7. You are having dinner with three people in history. If language weren't a barrier, who would they be? (Cannot be Jesus or the Blessed Virgin Mary)

I would choose: JPII, Blessed Carlo Acutis, Teddy Roosevelt.

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

I wanted to be an aerospace engineer. I thought it would be fun to send overengineered hunks of metal into space at breakneck speeds.

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

The Princess Bride.