JohnPaul Stedwill

Parish: St. Jude, Peoria

Birthdate: July 3

Seminary: Mundelein Seminary: Entered 2020, Class of 2026

Why did you become a seminarian?
As I moved through the early years of my young adulthood from high school to college and preparing for further graduate studies, I always found myself ultimately unfulfilled in the plans I had put together for myself. Through prayer I realized that the moments where I did experience fulfillment with an inner sense of peace and joy were in participating in the sacraments and opportunities to share the faith with others. I’ve always been inspired by my namesake, St. John Paul II, who said lovingly, but with a definitive call to action, “Do not be afraid. Do not be satisfied with mediocrity. Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.” I became a seminarian because I believe the Lord is asking me to surrender my plans and my life to Him in a more radical way so that He can do greater things than I ever imagined. 

What did you do before seminary?
I graduated from Benedictine College with degrees in biology and philosophy with plans to enter medical school and commission with the Navy to eventually become a physician in the US Armed Forces. 

An interesting fact about you:
I enjoy multi-day backpacking trips with friends to share in the beauty and wonder of the outdoors while also participating in heated  philosophical debates along the trail!