Corpus Christi Blog

Life at the Seminary

11-03-2019Weekly ReflectionJeffrey Pooley

Dear Friends in Christ,
I am writing you from my dorm at St. John Vianney Theological Seminary, a place that seemed likea far off dream just over two years ago. As I was sittng on a friend’s couch in Chandler, the Lord askedwhat I was waiting for. I made one small act of faith and he hasn’t stopped working miracles yet!Thank you so much for welcoming me into your parish family. It truly has become my home awayfrom home!

I want to give you a glimpse into my life at seminary! We started the year with a seminary-widecamping trip in Southern Colorado. Our campsite was absolutely beautiful — I slept maybe 10 yardsfrom a stream and the sky was so free from light pollution you could see so many stars! It was a greatevent to be introduced to the seminary community and really experience the love the older seminarianshave for the younger guys. The number of times we were extended kindness that weekend mademe feel so welcomed and so at ease with all of the guys!

After the camping trip we started our “normal” life schedule. I live with 20 other men (18 seminariansand two priests, in what I so lovingly refer to as a retirement home. All the men discerning withme are great and come from seven different dioceses. Our normal day starts with a 6:15 holy hour,followed by Morning Prayer, breakfast, and then interior prayer time that ends at 10. We then go toclass from 10-12, followed by a noon mass. Mass is the center of our day on purpose, so that everythingwe do is ordered around the mass! After mass we have lunch with the entire seminary. Monday-Wednesday we have a work hour. My least favorite job so far is kitchen crew — cleaning pots, pans,and dishes for 100 people is no fun! On Thursdays, we leave lunch early to go to our apostolate. Mineis working with grade schoolers at All Souls School, here in Denver. On Fridays, we either go for a hikeor go to a Carmel monastery and serve the sisters there through physical labor. A few weeks ago, Ihelped down a 30 foot tall tree that had been devastated by a beetle infestation! After that our afternoonis free until 6pm, when we gather for evening prayer and dinner. We end the night at 8:45 withNight prayer and grand silence! And then we wake up and do it again!

I pray in thanksgiving to the Father for the generosity of the people of Corpus Christi! Me beinghere would have never been possible without you all! My time there was filled with so many greatmemories and I hope to be with you all soon. But until then I assure you of my constant prayers andbeg for your prayers as well!

In Christ,
Jeff

P.S. If you have any personal prayer requests please don’t hesitate to reach out. My email is JeffreyP@laboureaspirant.org or send a handwritten letter to:

Jeffrey Pooley
St. John Vianney
1300 S. Steele St
Denver, CO 80210

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