Seminarian Profile: James Pankiewicz

Do your family and friends think it is a good idea that you're becoming a priest?
All of my family and friends have been very supportive of me. In fact, my entering seminary has led to a renewed interest in the faith among many of them.

Do you ever have any fun? What do you do in your free time?
I would be perfectly content doing nothing save reading about Abraham Lincoln and the American Civil War; preferably while sipping at a fresh cup of coffee.

If you were not a priest, what do you think you would be?
I would either go back to being a national park ranger at a historic site or move to New York City and make cappucinos at an artsy local coffee shop.

How many brothers and sisters do you have?
I have three sisters and one brother (who I can still beat up).

What is your favorite TV program?
I enjoy watching the news and catching an occasional baseball game.

Who is your favorite singer or music group?
My preference is for just about any type of music from the 1980's.

Do you ever get bored while studying to be a priest?
Not really. I stay pretty busy with my studies, apostolic field work, and church duties.

How is a seminary different from a regular school?
There is a huge demand placed on spiritual growth. You can't be a good seminarian without lots of prayer, personal reflection, and frequent spiritual direction.

How often do you see your family?
I see my family at Thanksgiving, Christmas, and at least 2-4 times each summer.

Can you really be happy as a priest since priests don't make much money?
It's definitely possible to be happy as a priest despite the small paycheck. This is true of any vocation in life. If one is truly called to do what he/she does, then true happiness will occur. I have witnessed this in the lives of priests, married couples, therapists, theater actors, and many others.

How often do you pray?
Every day.

Who helped you decide to become a priest?
Fr. Ken Hummel played a pretty big part.

When did you decide to study to be a priest? How did you know God was calling you to be a priest?
I'm still discerning if I'm called to the priesthood. Hence, I don't really know for sure if God wants me to be a priest. Nonetheless, seminary has been a great experience thus far.

What do you think the best thing will be about being a priest?
Celebrating the sacraments.