My journey toward the priesthood began quietly, without me fully realizing it at first. When I was in the 3rd grade, I became an altar server in my parish. Standing close to the altar, serving at Mass, and watching the priest offer the Eucharist filled me with a deep sense of joy and peace. I didn’t know it then, but God was planting the first seeds of my vocation.
When I reached the 8th grade, I felt something stronger – a gentle but persistent call from God to give my life completely to Him. It wasn’t just a passing thought; it was a desire that touched the deepest part of my heart. I shared this with my parents, and in their wisdom, they encouraged me to keep praying for my vocation until I completed the 12th grade.
Those years of waiting and praying were not wasted. They became a time of growth, learning, and deeper trust in God’s plan. I continued to serve at the altar, to attend Mass faithfully, and to spend time in prayer, asking the Lord to make His will clear to me. The more I prayed, the more certain I became that God was calling me to be His priest.
After completing my 12th grade, I told my parents once again about my desire to join the seminary. This time, they gave me their blessing with joy. Their support was a great encouragement, and I knew I was taking the first real step toward the life God had been calling me to for many years.
Today, as I continue on my journey of formation, I carry in my heart those early memories – the small boy serving at the altar, the teenager listening for God’s voice, and the young man saying “yes” to the Lord’s call. My prayer is that I may always remain faithful to the One who called me and that my life may lead many others closer to Him.
My prayer now is simple: to remain faithful to Jesus and help others hear and answer His call in their own lives.
Rev. Selvaraj Lucas MSC
