"Make a decision and go after it, trusting that God will be faithful. 'Fear not, little flock. It is your Father's good pleasure to give you the Kingdom' (Luke 12:32)."
BR. BERNARD WIERDAK, OP
TAKE A MOMENT TO
MEET BR. BERNARD!
What's your favorite prayer?
The Memorare: "Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession, was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother. To thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen."
It's short and sweet, attributed to my patron saint, and helps us seek God through Mary's most perfect intercession. (outside the Memorare, I give honorable mention to Psalm 104. Check it.)
What's your favorite thing you've read during your studies?
Atonement: Soundings in Biblical, Trinitarian, and Spiritual Theology by Margaret Turek. Atonement was my jam during year two of studies.
If you could join any past or current music group which would you pick?
Caamp! I'd get to learn banjo.
If you had to describe yourself as an animal, which one would it be?
Definitely a yellow Labrador retriever.
TIPS FROM BR. BERNARD:
What's a tip you have for young men discerning priesthood/religious life?
Pray every day. God loves you and wants to spend time with you! If you go to your room or a chapel and spend time with God in silence, He will show you the desires of your heart. He will show you more of who you are and what he created you for. Good discernment emerges from the daily practice of prayer.
What's something you wish you knew earlier about discernment?
St. Thomas Aquinas has this idea about God creating human beings (like you!) as "secondary causes," beings to whom he gives freedom. I think that's radical! We actually get to effect things in this world! God doesn't just give us choices in discernment, he makes us choosers. Once I perceived that truth more clearly, I felt more free to make a decision about my future and start to pursue it. I set out on an adventure!
Any words of encouragement?
Be not afraid! God is on your side. He wants deep joy for you. Make a decision and go after it, trusting that God will be faithful. "Fear not, little flock. It is your Father's good pleasure to give you the Kingdom" (Luke 12:32).