Michael Jeong

Formation Stage

Propaedeutic Year

Home Parish

Our Lady of Peace Korean Center, Irvine

Seminary

Bishop White Seminary

Favorite Saint(s)

Saint Michael the Archangel, St Joseph, St Jose Maria Escriva, St Christopher, St John Vianney, St Andrew Kim Taegon, St Carlos Acutis.

Favorite Marian Apparition(s)

the Rosary, Our Lady of Lourdes, Our Lady of Fatima: The Miracle of the Sun.

Favorite Book or Movie

Favorite Movie, The Mission.

Favorite Hobby

Lifting, Working out.

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?

Serving at the altar as an altar server was one of the factors that led to my decision into entering the seminary, being able to serve so close to God and assisting with the sacraments, particularly in the celebration of the Eucharist moved me to develop a servants heart, by learning service and humility. Unlike a Lay Parishioner, A priest has the ability to perform the sacraments, most notably the holy mass. Being able to save souls and to bring people to Jesus and Jesus to the people through the sacraments is an incredible gift. By modeling Christs Mercy and compassion A priest imitates Christ in care for others, kindness, compassion, and patience.

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

Father Daniel Seo, his passion in the liturgy inspired me. His Excellency Bishop Timothy Freyer, his devotion and commitment to serving the Church, setting an example. He highlighted the importance of mentoring and personal connection. Alex Kim *Godfather* As my Godfather and altar service coordinator, he instilled good leadership.

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

There was a moment in my life where everything started to align, I felt clarity. It was a during a weekday adoration, one I had attended many times. As I was listening to priests words and reflecting on the Eucharist, I felt an overwhelming sense of peace. The world around me faded, and I knew without a doubt that God was inviting me to a deeper lif of service. Adoration has always been a place of solace, a place where I encountered God. It wasn't sudden, dramataice, but ratere a deeper awareness over time. However that adoration marked the turning point.