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First assignment: St. Joseph Parish, Wilmette “I was just really focused on marriage,” said Schultz. “It wasn’t really until I graduated from college that I allowed myself to really look at being a priest.” And the more he looked, the more he thought God was calling him to the priesthood. He already had a bachelor’s degree in psychology and sociology, and he was in graduate school with plans to pursue a career in counseling. But he left after one semester to attend Mundelein Seminary. Many people encouraged him along the way, but he said the most important influence was his mother, who faithfully attended Mass. “Every few years, she would just sort of plant the idea,” he said. “She would ask, ‘Have you ever thought about being a priest?’” That’s just what young men need to encourage them to consider the priesthood, Schultz said. “It needs to start with giving people permission to think about it,” he said. “It all starts with a personal invitation.” Schultz will be in a position to offer such invitations—to the priesthood and religious life—in parish work, especially since he plans to become involved with the parish school and youth group. But before he starts that, he has one very important priestly duty to handle: performing the marriage ceremony for his twin sister three weeks after ordination. “I told my whole family that they have it easy. No one can see if they get emotional,” Schultz said. “I have to face everyone.” Other ordinations: Front Page | Digest | Cardinal | Interview |
