Tuan Nguyen

Formation Stage

Configuration Stage II

Home Parish

San Antonio de Padua, Anaheim

Seminary

St. John's Seminary

Favorite Saint(s)

Saint Anthony of Padua

Favorite Marian Apparition(s)

Our Lady of Fatima

Favorite Book or Movie

Book: The Good Life: Where Morality and Spirituality Converge by Richard M. Gula Movie: Green Book

Favorite Hobby

Cooking, playing and watching sports, traveling

Background

What are some of the factors that led to your decision to enter the seminary and discern the question of a vocation to the priesthood?

My strong Catholic upbringing and family’s deep faith planted the seed of my vocation. Watching my mother’s devotion and my father’s humble service inspired me. I was also drawn to the beauty of parish life and the example of good priests in my community. Later, my experience of prayer, retreats, ministry with people, and encouragement from mentors helped me see that God was calling me to serve Him as a priest.

Who are some of the people who influenced your decision to enter the seminary? What is it about them that assisted you?

My mother influenced me the most with her deep trust in God. My sister, who is a nun in Vietnam, also supported me with her guidance. Father Tim Lenchak, my novice director, showed me humility, wisdom, and how to serve people with compassion. All these people helped me grow closer to God and encouraged me to follow my vocation.

Describe the moment that you knew you wanted to take the next steps to become a priest?

During my novitiate year, I had a 30-day retreat that deeply touched my heart. I felt God’s immense love for me and for the poor and marginalized. I cried in prayer and felt a strong desire to dedicate my life completely to Him. At that moment, I knew I wanted to take the next step to become a priest and serve God’s people.