‘It is impossible to be a saint on one’s own.’

Nov. 1, 2023

By Brother Antony Augustine Cherian, Dominican Friars of the Province of the Most Holy Name of Jesus

Nov. 1, 2023

My vocation to the Dominican Order and to the priesthood was carefully formed by God through the many people he placed in my life. First and most influential was my Syro-Malabar Catholic family, from whom I learned both the meaning of my faith and how to live it out. More than anyone else, my parents helped shape me as a man of faith and taught me to see everything in light of God’s providence.

Everywhere I have lived — including in India, California, Missouri, Ohio and Alaska — friends, teachers, priests and others supported me and, most importantly, prayed for me. This constant stream of graces continues to sustain me through my formation as a Dominican friar.

It is impossible to be a saint on one’s own. The gift of asking for and receiving prayers from the other members of Christ’s body is indispensable to discerning and flourishing in every vocation. What a blessing it is to be part of this body!

Brother Antony Augustine Cherian
Dominican Friars of the Province of the Most Holy Name of Jesus
Our Lady of the Snows Council 4859
Anchorage, Alaska

Father Christopher Murphy, Diocese of Providence.

‘It is impossible to be a saint on one’s own.’

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