Vocation Story

Aug 14

Fr. Joe Newman, OSFS, uses his knowledge of science to spread the Salesian Spirituality.

Over this week I met with the Oblates who are directly involved in our vocation and formation programs. To begin these meetings, we reflected on our own stories and personal vocational discernment. This was a precious time for us to recall our initial vocation and formation with the Oblates. On August 22, I celebrate 15 years as an Oblate of St. Francis de Sales. Everyone has their own vocation story, here is mine.

I studied biology as an undergraduate at DeSales University. I loved my university and I loved my major. During the summer following my junior year, I began to seriously think about my next steps. It was a wonderful summer. I lived with a college friend in Baltimore while interning in a lab at the National Institutes of Health. Additionally, I just took the MCAT that previous Spring, and I was discerning my next steps. Should I pursue an advanced degree to continue scientific research? Should I go to medical school? Lastly, should I take a year to work, live, and pray with the Oblates back in Toledo?

I never heard a voice or received a clear sign to make my decision. Instead, I received a different insight into vocation. Francis de Sales is very clear in the Introduction to the Devout Life. In the early 1600s he promoted the truth that we are all called to holiness no matter our vocation. This idea is not a revolutionary one now, but in his day, many believed holiness was reserved to priests and religious.

Here is my insight into vocation: I firmly believe that God let me choose. I had the peace to believe that God allowed many different and good paths, and God permitted me to decide which good I wanted to pursue. I would be joyful as a priest, Oblate, doctor, researcher, husband, or parent. I got to choose.

I chose to try the Oblate route first. Honestly, I thought I could try Oblate formation, if I didn’t like it, the other options would still be open. What’s the harm in trying the Oblates first? A very practical decision. After graduating from college, I moved into the St. Francis faculty house in Toledo, taught physical science at the school, and prayed with the community throughout the day. What happened? I fell in love - with God, the Oblates, our community, prayer, and ministry. I chose this life, and God has graced my heart to persevere in this love ever since.

May God be Praised

Learn more about the Oblate vocations