Name: James DeGrassa Class: II Theology

Parish: Saint Madeline, Ridley Park

What year did you enter the seminary?
I first came into the seminary in 2000.

What did you do prior to seminary entrance?
High school student at Cardinal O’Hara in Springfield

What influenced your decision to enter the seminary?
Many factors influenced my decision to enter. I was often told by many people to think about the priesthood. It was through much prayer and reflection, visiting the seminary, and speaking with the priest at my high school, Father Maloney, that I finally entered the seminary.

Why do you want to be a priest?
I want to serve the people of God, the church, and Christ in this most awesome and unique way – to be a holy and faithful priest. I often thing of what an amazing privilege and honor to be chosen and called by God.

What did your family and friends think about your decision to enter the seminary?
My family was great about my vocation. Although I was nervous about my friend’s reactions....every single one of them was supportive.

What do you do for fun?
I like to read, exercise, go to movies, hang out with my family and friends, go down the shore, go out to eat, play piano and guitar, and travel.

Who is your favorite Saint?
I find Saint Paul’s life and writing to be a great source of inspiration for me. Through his conversion experience he was set on fire for love of Christ and the church. I often pray to have the great faith that Saint Paul possessed and to be willing to stand for Christ no matter how difficult it may seem.

What advice would you give to a young man thinking about the seminary?
I often tell guys thinking about priesthood to “trust”