Name: John Weber Class: III Theology

Parish: Saints Philip and James, Exton

What year did you enter the seminary?
Fall 2000

What did you do prior to seminary entrance?
I entered the seminary after graduating from Downingtown Senior High School.

What influenced your decision to enter the seminary?
I cannot remember a time where I did not think about becoming a priest. Even when I was a very young child, when anyone would ask me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I would tell them that I was going to be a priest. My family always supported me in this as well as my parish priest growing up. I believe that it was through their prayers and support that I entered the seminary right away after graduating high school, and I am so glad that I did.

Why do you want to be a priest?
When I was in grade school, my father converted to the Catholic Faith. I remember him receiving instruction from our parish priest and then being with him when he made his first Holy Communion and when he was Confirmed at the Cathedral. I knew that after seeing the joy that my father experienced, that I wanted to bring others to that same joy, and the best way I could do this was as a priest. I want to bring all to Christ that they too may experience the peace and joy that He offers through the Church and the sacraments.

What did your family and friends think about your decision to enter the seminary?
They were ecstatic. There was no surprise because for years my family and friends always tole me that they thought I would be a priest.

What do you do for fun?
I love to be with my family and friends and to laugh with them. I like going to the movies, reading.

Who is your favorite Saint?
Saint Aloysius Gonzaga because he was a young man who gave up everything he had to enter the seminary. He died while in the seminary from taking care of plague victims. He is a patron of seminarians and a good example and intercessor for those in the seminary and those who are discerning their call. I also have devotion to Saint Therese and Saint John Neumann.

What advice would you give to a young man thinking about the seminary?
Not to be afraid. Trust in the Lord that he will lead you on the right path. Come and visit the seminary and pray.