Vocations are born in prayer, and prayer, and only in prayer can they persevere and bear fruit. (Pope Francis)

Today, I’d like to depart, ever so slightly from my typical format. Don’t misunderstand me, I’m still planning to point you to an awesome human whose name is Jason Diebolt. That said, I’m humbly requesting prayerful action from my readers today.

First, however, let me tell you just a little bit about Jason. Peaceful, kind, and friendly are the first three words that come to mind when I think about this young man. He’s an affable kid who graduated from Guerin Catholic High School in 2016 with my oldest son, Nick. His is simply a beautiful soul. There’s just nothing at all that’s notably disagreeable about Jason, and since the moment I heard his name mentioned by my oldest son, the word used in conjunction with his name the most was “faithful”.

It was no surprise to me, then, that Jason chose to take the road less traveled and explore a priestly vocation after his years as a Golden Eagle, where he roamed the halls with his completely charming twin sister, Jenna. He’s been studying for four years at St. John Vianney Seminary in Minnesota. I ran into him briefly during a school break some time back when he joined our Gospel of Life Council members for a meeting or two. He and a fellow seminarian wrote a beautiful Novena for Life that the folks at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church (his home parish) prayed last year and again this past October during Respect Life Month.

As we enter into Advent this year, preparing our hearts for the coming of Christ, I can really think of no more beautiful time to pray for all our seminarians. I’d like to request that all who feel so disposed please stop and join me in praying during this time, especially, for a character and integrity filled young man named Jason, that he may hear the Lord’s voice and follow it bravely and joyfully. Our prayerful support is powerful aid, and I feel confident he will feel it in a meaningful way.

Good and Gracious God,

I pray that Jason and all our seminarians will grow in faith, hope and charity. May their hearts overflow with your compassion, understanding, and generosity. May their desire to serve you inspire others to answer your call. Lord Jesus, give Jason the grace to follow you more closely this day and always. AMEN.