Joe O’Hayre

Year in Seminary: Spirituality Year
Age: 25
Home Parish(es): Shrine of St. Anne

At what point in your life did your faith come alive? How did this happen?
My faith came alive after I joined the youth group at my parish. I had two great youth Ministers who taught me that faith was important and they showed me how to have a relationship with God.

What did you do before you entered the seminary?
Before seminary I worked various different jobs in the food industry and I also worked for a company that built data centers for IBM. In between my years of work I volunteered two times with an organization called NET Ministries.

Name one person who influences your decision to go seminary. How did this person encourage you?
Fr. Jim Crisman has always been a great support and influence on my vocation.

What was one of the most important things that helped you take the step into seminary?
Prayer and speaking with others, especially speaking with priests I know.

What do you enjoy most about the seminary?
I enjoy the opportunity to grow as a son of God through learning about myself.

How do you like to spend your free time?
I enjoy outdoor activities such as fly fishing and hiking. I also really enjoy listening to and playing music, going to concerts, and spending time with my family and friends.

What would be your one piece of advice for a young man discerning his vocation?
Draw near to God daily through a time of personal prayer.