Max Kroell

Hometown: Bellefonte

Home Parish: Saint John the Evangelist in Bellefonte

Seminary:  Saint Mark Seminary (Erie)

Personal Interests: Hiking, Camping, Track & Field, and Golfing.

Why do you feel called to the Priesthood?
I desire to grow close to the Lord, as we all do, and for me I feel that closeness when I am serving others whether it be in my Parish or just out in the community. Ultimately, the Priest serves the Parish he is in, he is there to celebrate in the moments of great joy but also to console and comfort in the times of sorrow. I feel that call to serve others in the Church. I desire to be able to share the greatness of the Lord who has died out of love for all of us. Despite all of my desires, I believe that God is calling me to discern the Priesthood so that I may serve his people as a Priest, I place my trust in him and know that he will lead me to where he knows I will be happiest. 

What advice would you give to a man considering the Priesthood? 
 

Pray! Spending time before the Blessed Sacrament and in prayer helps tremendously. Also don’t be afraid to reach out to your Parish Priest or the Diocesan Vocations Director, they want to help you in your discernment journey. Reaching out is not a commitment to go to Seminary, but rather a step in your journey to know which Vocation the Lord is calling you to. It’s much easier to discern when you’re not doing it alone!