Home Parish: Boston. Where did you grow up? Radom, Poland and San Diego, Calif. Seminary: St. John’s Seminary. High School: UC High. College: University of California, San Diego; Jagiellonian University, Poland. Hobbies: Computers, miniatures, disk golf, role-playing, reading.

When was the first time you thought of priesthood?

The idea has been in the back of my mind since childhood. But then I began serious consideration during my master's program in Krakow.

What were major Catholic activities you participated in prior to the seminary?

A vocational retreat in San Diego. I was also present during the current pope's Mass in Krakow as well as at events commemorating John Paul II's death.

What is your favorite Scripture passage? Why?

Christ's discussion with the rich youth. It's a hard passage, but it has a lot to teach us and shows the extent of God's call to man.

Who influenced/inspired you to priesthood? Please explain.

Some of the priests in Poland inspired me the most. Hearing them expound on love and truth made me want to serve God in that way.

What would you say to a young man who thinks he may have a vocation?

To pray about it and to speak to priests and religious about it. If God is calling him, he will find that feeling reinforced. Some form of spiritual direction would be helpful too.

What would people be surprised to know about you?

Depends on how well they know me. I try to be a fairly open person to those that know me.

What activities would you recommend in order to foster a culture of vocations?

Vocation is such a personal thing, just encouraging people to follow God's guidance is key, I think.

Did anyone invite you to consider priesthood? Please explain.

The pastor of my church in San Diego invited me to the discernment day of that diocese. Several other people just said that they thought I would be a good priest.

What influence (if any) has Pope John Paul II had on your vocation?

As a Pole, Pope John Paul II's influence in my life is strong, but hard to describe. He helped me realize how important and human Christ's service is in people's lives.

How did you come to know Jesus Christ?

At my first year confirmation retreat in San Diego there was a form of charismatic prayer. During this prayer I felt Christ's presence in a very real way for the first time.

What were the spiritual events or activities that helped you develop and shape your personal relationship with Christ and his Church?

Religious youth communities helped me find myself within the Church and helped me protect myself from the pull of popular culture.

Please describe the importance of prayer in your life.

Daily prayer has been a part of my life for a long time, but it is hard for me to keep from letting it fall into routine. Adorations and charismatic prayer help me open myself up more.

What are some of your favorite and most important spiritual readings/books/passages?

St. Augustine's quote about the unease of the soul before it rests in the Lord helped lead me to the seminary. St. Faustina's prayer and journal have been very inspiring to me as well.

What is your day like in the seminary?

Prayer, meals, Mass, and classes communally. Some time for private study, recreation, and devotion.

Through the cardinal, God is calling you personally to help rebuild his Church. How must the priest respond to this mandate today?

By living in a way that helps the Church regain the trust of the people. By fulfilling the mission Christ set out for us. Anything else?

I think vocation offices need to work closer with youth ministries and support them. Vocations are strengthened in places where youth can protect themselves from the negative sides of today's culture.