This fall, Lord willing, I will be entering my fifth year of formation for the priesthood. The time has gone by fast, yet it has been filled with many graces. Reflecting on the journey so far, I see that it has been filled with study, prayer, Divine Providence and many memorable experiences. It amazes me to think how good God has been.
Along with the normal rhythm of the seminary school year, I also have had many fruitful pastoral experiences within the diocese. Thinking back on my assignments thus far—St. Mary, Gaylord; St. Casimir and St. Dominic, Posen/Metz; Quo Vadis Camp; St. Ignatius, Rogers City; and Immaculate Conception, Traverse City—each has taught me lasting lessons through the pastors and wonderful people I have encountered.
This past summer was particularly poignant, as I was assigned to Clinical Pastoral Education at Munson Hospital in Traverse City. This apostolate was unique in that its primary focus was accompanying the sick in a hospital setting.
Spending so much time in this setting gave me a new appreciation for the importance of accompanying those who are infirm. It was also very edifying to see how many parishioners from local parishes take time out of their busy schedules to carry out this important ministry. For many of the people we encountered, the opportunity to receive Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament or simply to share a moment of prayer or conversation meant the world to them.Particularly profound were the moments when a priest would come to offer confession or anointing, bringing the grace of the sacraments to those in need.
God’s grace was palpable and did amazing things! Seeing God at work in my formation in so many powerful ways propels me to continue my formation and discernment, confident in God’s perfect Providence.
Jerry serves during the ordination Mass of Deacon Jake Belanger to the transitional diaconate on June 6, a memorable moment in his ongoing formation for the priesthood.
Gathered around the fire at the annual Vocations BBQ on June 28, Jerry enjoys an evening of fellowship, prayer and vocational reflection with fellow seminarians, clergy and young men considering a vocation.
-Jerry Przekora
