Daniel Eusterman

Year in Seminary: Philosophy – 1st Year
Age: 21
Home Parish(es): Our Lady of Loreto

When did you first consider becoming a priest? What made you consider it?
I first considered the priesthood when I was 14 years old and was preparing for High School. My older brother who has been my hero much of my life took time away from a serious relationship with his girlfriend just to think about the priesthood. Through his example and the example of many faithful and “cool” young priests and seminarians, I felt God nudging me towards the seminary and possibly towards the priesthood.

What was one of the most important things that helped you take the step into seminary?
Entering college seminary was not a huge step for me because I knew it was the right place to discern and grow as a man. In my life I knew I needed to grow in holiness, “sonliness,” and manliness and the best way to discern the priesthood was to be immersed in the life of seminary. For me, seminary clicked as the right place to go, and after almost four years I know they have been the best years of my life. I did not worry about discerning the priesthood, I discerned seminary first.

What do you enjoy most about the seminary?
The greatest thing about the seminary is the balance of life. It meets us where we are: humanity. We have fun, we pray, we work hard, we relax, and we are formed to be true men. The seminary is a healthy structure made to encounter Jesus Christ in everything we do. It does just that.

How do you like to spend your free time?
I love to play music in my free time. I find great joy in the creative and expressive power behind writing and playing simple songs. I also like to read good novels (Michael O’Brien, Classics, and others) and play sports like ultimate frisbee and soccer.

What would be your one piece of advice for a young man discerning his vocation?
Pray. Don’t try to figure everything out. Trust in the Good Shepherd to lead you where he wants you to be. Pray.

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