Carlos Humberto Aguirre Cruz
Sacred Heart House of Formation, Trenton
What seminary do you attend and what year did you enter the seminary?
I am from Colombia, where I entered the seminary in 2002. Prior to the seminary, I studied philosophy and theology in Colombia for six years and, before that, I studied medicine. Currently, I am studying English and am preparing to enter Immaculate Conception Seminary at Seton Hall in January 2010.
What drew you to the United States to prepare for the priesthood?
I accepted the call of God to help the Church minister to the people in the United States. I want to be part of the mission that the Church in America is involved in.
Some of my interests are: Playing volleyball, listening to salsa music, cooking Colombian food, and visiting famous places.
The first time I thought about a priestly vocation was...
in 1999 after an earthquake destroyed my city. Before that, I admired the work of priests; their generosity, service, and dedication.
How do you pray, what is your prayer life like?
The methods I use are the rosary, liturgy of the hours, and celebration of the mass. I also enjoy going to the chapel for a private time of prayer when I can be with God.
What excites me about being a priest?
Being able to help people with their spiritual life and orienting them to the supreme truth.
What do you enjoy about seminary life?
I enjoy the friendship with the other seminarians, pastoral work, spiritual life and the community life.
If someone is considering a vocation to the priesthood I would tell them: Becoming a priest isn’t as easy as you may think, but if you are called by God he will give you the strength and show you the way.
A Scripture passage that inspires me: “For the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” - Mark 10,45.
