Fr. Ryan O’Neill

Year in Seminary: Theology – 4th Year
Age: 28
Home Parish(es): St. John’s the Evangelist, Loveland, CO

At what point in your life did your faith come alive? How did this happen?
My faith came alive when I was attending Regis University (2002-2005). This happened because I made friends with people who sincerely cared about being holy.

When did you first consider becoming a priest? What made you consider it?
I first consider becoming a priest the fall semester of 2004 at Regis University. I consider it because a good Dominican priest heard my confession and encouraged me to seek the will of God for my life.

Name one person who influences your decision to go seminary. How did this person encourage you?
Fr. Mike Rapp influenced my decision to go to seminary when I met him as a student at Regis University. I was struck by how he was’t afraid to be himself and yet still follow God’s will for him to become a priest. He was a normal guy who made it possible for me to see myself as a normal guy going to seminary.

What do you enjoy most about the seminary?
I enjoy being with the brothers in the seminary. I have met some of the best men of my life in the seminary. There is a real desire to be holy, and yet we are not afraid to be goofy or smoke a pipe on the porch together.

What would be your one piece of advice for a young man discerning his vocation?
If you think you might be called to the priesthood, just remember that you are free to say “no” to God. God has a plan for your life, and it’s the best plan ever, but he loves you so much that he will let you reject his plan. So, don’t feel pressured to join seminary. Just be open, honest, and willing.