When did you first think of becoming a priest?

I was about 10 years old and was an altar boy at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish, Providence. I was inspired by the example of the young priests and at the same time I had come to know the older priests who were assigned to the parish; among my duties was to answer the rectory phone and door. Within a few years, my duties at the parish included serving as sacristan and assisting in the cleaning of the church. During this time I was attending public schools in Providence.

Was there anyone in your childhood who inspired and encouraged your vocation by their example of holiness, such as a parent, grandparent or religious sister or brother? (Did you attend Catholic schools?)

I distinctly remember Father Wilfred Gregoire who was assigned to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish for a while. I recall his reverent celebration of Mass and his interest in developing Christian virtues in the youth of the parish. (I attended La Salle Academy for freshman year of high school but then was accepted into the high school department of the Seminary of Our Lady of Providence.)

What is the greatest joy of being a priest?

Bringing the word of God and the truth of the faith to the people of God which task, although challenging, is also fulfilling to the priest and meaningful to the faithful. This is especially evident when people need the spiritual assistance and direction only a priest representing the Good Shepherd can offer.

What is the greatest challenge of being a priest?

A particular challenge that concerns me is the need to reach out to so many Catholic families that have grown lukewarm in the active practice of their faith and in attending Holy Mass. It is a challenge to invite them to renew their baptismal promises and to commit to weekly Sunday Mass as a participation of their family in the worship of God as He wills it. So many seem to be content with occasional participation in the Eucharist as if it were only a matter of convenience and not a "joyful obligation" that brings them closer to God and to one another.

Can you share an experience you are most grateful for in your priestly ministry?

The best way to address this question is for me to indicate that I have benefited from a variety of experiences: parish ministry, central diocesan administration, priestly formation of seminarians, ongoing priestly formation in overseeing a world-wide sabbatical program, and serving at the Apostolic Nunciature in Washington, DC. Each of these varying experiences have afforded me a unique perspective on the work of the Church, and while I could not honestly select one as more formative than another, I can state the heart of each and every diocesan priest is centered in parish ministry.

How do you keep informed of current developments affecting the church and your parishioners?

Saint Philip's Parish is a large and active community of believers, and both Father Rodrigues and I benefit from the assistance of wonderful co-workers and cooperators upon whom we rely for advice and help. With regard to developments in the local and universal churches, there is easy access to Catholic media as well as many websites.

How do you keep your relationship with the Lord strong and continue to grow spiritually?

Let me point out one way. I have found that an important element for me personally is to preach at all Masses, even daily Mass, so that I benefit from having prepared for the liturgy not only as a celebrant but also as a participant, to both be a preacher and a hearer of the Word of God.

How do you stay connected with your brother priests?

In addition to attending diocesan convocations and pastoral study days, I try to accept invitations to visit with other priests, including sharing meals at various rectories. From time to time, I invite my brother priests to experience, for better or worse, my cooking at St. Philip's!

Do you have any special interests or hobbies that you enjoy?

When traveling, I make a point of visiting museums and when possible attending concerts. While living in Rome and in Washington, I was able to take advantage of the multiple cultural and artistic opportunities these cities are known for.

What is the best way to encourage priestly vocations? How do you encourage priestly and religious vocations?

I believe that the first and most obvious way to encourage vocations is visibility: Let the young people see a priest or religious easily recognizable by their clerical or religious attire who is happy, fulfilled, mature, present, involved and loving--one who can do the serious work of the Lord in joyful hope. Example and visibility in a spirit of joy speaks more effectively than thousands of words!Appointment of new auxiliary bishop applauded