We were so grateful to have MODG Alum and Dominican priest, Fr. Patrick Rooney, as our featured speaker for this month’s Light of the Faith episode!

It was a delight to have Fr. Rooney speak on his talk entitled, “Vocation As A Sweet Cross.”

He shared his journey to the priesthood and many of the beautiful moments he has witnessed. His faith-filled words encouraged us all to devote more time considering our own calls in this earthly life. As our Founder, Laura Berquist, said this talk is “A timely consideration about something eternal.”

Fr. Rooney mentioned how teaching for Mother of Divine Grace School throughout his college years at Thomas Aquinas College opened his eyes to the idea of religious life. 

While teaching Religion classes to MODG students, he often caught himself accidentally preaching to his students, striving to instill in their hearts a true love for the Catholic faith. It was through this experience that he truly began considering religious life.

This talk is a fantastic resource for students prayerfully considering the idea of religious vocations. Fr. Rooney discusses nine points of discernment he refers to as “Teeter Totters” that he recommends individuals to consider. 

Ultimately, Father reminds us all that our life is meant to be given back to God, and that specific path looks different for all.

“To make your life about something other than you, I think, is the key to human fulfillment, to meaning in life, and to happiness in this life.” - Father Patrick Rooney

If you are interested in the rest of his story, be sure to watch the recording here.