​Pray for vocations and Assumption Seminary

Pray for vocations and Assumption Seminary

I remember the first time I read the words of Pope Francis in his apostolic exhortation, “Evangelii Gaudium.” Pope Francis shares with us, “The Gospel has an intrinsic principle of totality: it will always remain good news until it has been proclaimed to all people, until it has healed and strengthened every aspect of humanity, until it has brought all men and women together at table in God’s kingdom. The whole is greater than the part.” (ln. 237, Evangelii Gaudium)

My name is Alex Smith from the Diocese of Little Rock, Arkansas. I am a deacon in transition for ordination to the priesthood. I am grateful to have studied and trained here in San Antonio at Assumption Seminary for the past four years. On May 29, my priestly ordination will take place in Little Rock. The words of our Holy Father in Evangelii Gaudium have been the message for me these last four years of studies. Each of us is called to proclaim the Word of God to all whom we encounter.

Assumption Seminary is a bilingual and multicultural community of priestly formation. The goal of Assumption is to enable Christ-centered men to grow and develop as collaborative and culturally sensitive pastoral leaders committed to the Gospel. Here at Assumption, I had the opportunity to study with seminarians from many other dioceses and from different cultural identities. We have seminarians from Vietnam, the Philippines, Nigeria, Colombia, El Salvador, Honduras, different parts of Mexico and the United States. It is an honor to have met many seminarians of different cultural sensibilities and to dialogue with my seminary brothers during this process of priestly formation.

Here at Assumption Seminary, we also have the opportunity to study and practice Spanish and English for all students. Opportunities are available to grow spiritually in different ways through our daily prayers, homilies, ministries, classes, or just hanging out together. I am grateful to see my brothers learn other cultures and languages since the need in the bilingual community is vital to communicate the message of God. Assumption Seminary greatly values the Hispanic community and supports seminarians in learning Spanish and English and growing in understanding of other diverse cultures.

Without a doubt, Assumption has prepared me to have that trust and confidence to be able to communicate with everyone I encounter in my journey as a priest. I am blessed to return to Arkansas very soon and begin my priestly ministry. However, I will not forget the last four years that strengthened me to remember brotherly love for one another no matter where they come from or how they speak. All are called to the supper of the lamb. Pray for the seminarians and continue to support Assumption Seminary with your prayers and financial support. We greatly need your support in all areas to have more future priests who can celebrate Mass and sacraments in Spanish, English or in other languages! May the Lord call you to serve! Pray for more vocations! Pray and support Assumption Seminary!