This semester at Marian University and Bishop Simon Brute College Seminary has had its ups and downs with all the new changes due to the pandemic. The elimination of breaks like Labor Day and Fall break has be especially challenging. On October 20, I was sitting with my friends at dinner and told them that I felt really burnt out and could use a break. Two days later I tested positive for Covid-19 and began my quarantine in the castle.

I immediately thought that the Lord’s will was being done in this situation and tried to maintain high spirits and positivity while quarantining. It felt as if I were taking a break from the world for a little while which allowed me to discern my priorities. My symptoms included a bad headache for a few days and loss of smell and taste. These symptoms did not stop me from my academics and allowed me time to get ahead on my assignments. I also grateful for the extra time to read a book about the priesthood and crack open the catechism. 

Having been cleared to return to my regular routine, I can reflect on my time quarantining. First, I was able to rest which was greatly needed during this semester. The time off allowed me to feel refreshed and obtain the energy needed to finish the semester strong. Second, I have a renewed excitement for the priesthood. While I was stuck in my room, our rector Father Joe Moriarty checked in on me daily and delivered me food. I am very grateful for this, and these actions showed me what is needed as a priest. A priest is called to serve and to die to himself daily, and I can see that being done by our rector for which I am very thankful. Also, I was able to grow in my love for Blessed Mother Mary. Sharing my suffering with her, especially during the sorrowful mysteries of the rosary, allowed me to further my understanding of the pain she endured. The final thing I can confirm about my time in quarantine is not a new discovery, but an ongoing revelation that is being unfolded in my life. It is that suffering is important, and we ought to accept our crosses as they come. I can see clearly that good was able to come from my experience of suffering with Covid-19. Let us be ever mindful of who it is we serve, for as is said in Matthew’s Gospel “we cannot serve both God and mammon”. We shall either choose the comfort of this world or choose our cross as He did. In faith, we shall choose wisely. Amen!