A journey toward Christ and vocation August 22, 2026By Gryffen Atkinson Special to the Catholic Review Filed Under: Commentary, Guest Commentary, Vocations Quo Vadis – Latin for “Where are you going?” – was the question I found myself meditating on while I attended a retreat of the same name hosted by St. Mary’s Seminary in Roland Park this past July. Advertised as an “encounter…to help young men grow as disciples of Jesus by learning how to pray, growing in fraternity and pursuing a deeper relationship with Jesus,” Quo Vadis Baltimore was where I escaped the noise and distractions of daily life, heard presentations from priests who have experienced the love of Christ, sought a deeper more intimate relationship with the Lord, and, of course, enjoy the pool table! As one of many young men who attended Quo Vadis to discern and discover my vocation, several key moments from my experience stand out. First, not only was adoration of the Blessed Sacrament offered, but during that time St. Mary’s provided us with opportunities to have seminarians pray over us individually. The peaceful silence and burning incense created a prayerful atmosphere, setting the stage for a Holy Spirit-filled moment that felt both powerful and relieving. In addition to adoration, we heard several talks including one given by Auxiliary Bishop Adam J. Parker. The bishop left me feeling deeply encouraged to help my community as he detailed his journey to becoming a bishop and his perspective as a spiritual shepherd. The family Mass and dinner held on our last day of Quo Vadis allowed me the opportunity to have a personal encounter with Archbishop William E. Lori, who graciously gave some of his time to bless me for my upcoming birthday. Leaving Quo Vadis, I felt a calling and a mission. For several years, I had been discerning a vocation to the priesthood, but that call often seemed to come more from my mind than from my heart. Through this retreat and the experiences I encountered there, that changed. I now feel a deeper, more personal call to serve as a parish priest. It is a warm and powerful conviction that fills me with hope and excitement for what God may have planned for my future. I also feel encouraged to make it my personal mission to do more for my community and parish, particularly through prayer and service. Though I am not yet a priest, I may one day become one, God willing. In the meantime, I feel inspired to be a shepherd in my own small way, helping those around me draw closer to the love of God. I’m grateful to my parish, St. Patrick in Havre de Grace, and my wonderful parish priests, Father Francis Ouma and Father Franz Belleza, for generously sponsoring my attendance at Quo Vadis and for their continued support as I discern my vocation. The question, “Where are you going?” will continue to be on my mind as I take all that I have gained from this experience and use it to bless those around me. To that end, I ask you, dear reader, where are you going? Read more vocations stories Black Catholic religious sisters grace Baltimore at national event as they seek new members Quo Vadis Baltimore Beyond brings high school students together in faith Father Gould committed to mission as new rector at St. Mary’s Seminary Radio Interview: From father to son Five men ordained priests in joyful celebration Deacon Connor Schmidt believes in saying ‘yes’ as he nears finish line Copyright © 2026 Catholic Review Media Print
