Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP: "How I Decided (to become a Priest)"

Summary

The speaker reflects on their diverse experiences before embracing a religious life as a priest, expressing deep satisfaction with their choice. They draw parallels with two individuals who initially pursued careers in accounting and physics but ultimately discovered a higher calling. The narrative encourages listeners to consider that they may be destined for greater purposes, suggesting that when they pursue these callings, divine assistance will follow.

Takeaways

• 🧳 The speaker reflects on trying different experiences before entering religious life, including backpacking and pursuing a social life.
• ⏳ There is a sense of wondering if they could have contributed more to God if they had decided on the seminary sooner.
• 🙏 The speaker expresses deep satisfaction with their decision to become a priest, emphasizing the joy and fulfillment it brings.
• 😊 Being a priest is described as a good life, and the speaker strongly recommends it to those considering it.
• 💭 The speaker acknowledges that people often feel they could do many things but might not recognize a deeper calling within them.
• 🧑‍💼 Two examples are given: one individual thought they'd become an accountant, the other a physicist, but both found a greater purpose in religious life.
• 👂 When they finally followed their true calling, they realized it was what they were made for.
• 🌟 The speaker believes many people are destined for bigger things than they initially expect.
• 🎯 When someone gives their calling a try, God will guide them to their true purpose.
• 💖 The underlying message encourages self-reflection and openness to a greater calling beyond one's initial plans.

Q & A

What did the speaker do before deciding to enter religious life?

The speaker studied, backpacked around Europe, had a social life, and tried various activities before deciding to enter religious life and the seminary.

Did the speaker ever have doubts about their decision to enter religious life?

Yes, the speaker sometimes wondered if they could have done more for God had they made their decision sooner, but ultimately felt glad about their choice.

How does the speaker feel about being a priest?

The speaker loves being a priest and considers it a really good life.

Would the speaker recommend a religious life to others?

Yes, the speaker would recommend becoming a priest or entering religious life to anyone considering it, even if they feel unsure or have other interests.

What were the initial career plans of the two men mentioned in the script?

One man thought he was going to be an accountant, and the other thought he was going to be a physicist.

What changed for the two men who had different career plans?

Both men felt a calling to something greater and decided to pursue religious life, realizing that this was what they were meant to do.

What message does the speaker convey about trying new paths in life?

The speaker encourages trying new paths and listening to one’s calling, suggesting that we may be made for bigger things than we initially guess.

How does the speaker view God's role in their life choices?

The speaker believes that when a person gives their calling a try, God will take care of the rest and guide them.

What emotions does the speaker express about their journey into religious life?

The speaker expresses gratitude and joy for their journey into religious life, feeling fulfilled and content with their decision.

What is the main theme of the speaker's message?

The main theme of the speaker's message is about being open to one's true calling, embracing life's journey, and trusting that God will guide them to where they are meant to be.