I was born with a severe speech impediment, but after nearly getting into a car accident at age 6, I could suddenly speak clearly. Though I could never pay God back for this gift, he gave me my voice for a reason.
My parish priest, through his dynamic homilies and reverence for the Mass, planted the seed of a priestly vocation within me when I was 12. Late in high school and during my freshman year of college, I discerned that I was indeed called to be a priest of Jesus Christ. So, I responded and entered the seminary.
My advice to any man considering the priesthood is to embrace the cross and embrace our crucified Lord as your best friend. Intimacy with Christ is essential, and love for the Mass fosters that relationship; it is at the heart of the priesthood. Trust less in yourself and more in our Lord, and you will see his grace acting through you as his instrument of salvation for his Church.
Father Curt Vogel
Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph
St. Patrick’s Council 6722
Holden, Missouri








