I was born in The Bronx, New York, lived in Central Florida for fourteen years, and moved to Texas three years ago. I am currently both a seminarian for the diocese, and a student studying physics at the University of Houston.

I worked at my home parish for two summers where I got to see exactly how baptismal records are kept and made, weddings are planned, or funerals accommodated, among other things. It’s astonishing to see the amount of work that the parish office does. While working there the pastor of the parish had me join him on many errands which allowed me to see what his life is like as a priest. For a while when I was young I went to many churches and I would think “These people don’t act like they care about God; they just like seeing their friends.” When I got lost one day trying to find the Co-Cathedral and ended up at Annunciation, I found a parish and a priest who put God first in everything, the people second, and himself last. I found a parish that loves God more than it loves itself. This environment where the Church and God are taken seriously, there is no hiding from the truth, allowed me to feel confident in asking what God wants of my life instead of being embarrassed as though the priesthood is a joke, and to discern thus far that indeed God wills me to be a priest.

One of my largest interests in my free time is to read old missals and instructions for Mass, baptisms, confirmations, funerals. I find it enjoyable and interesting to learn what was done in the past, and what the meaning is for it. One example is that linen was required to make the cloths that touch the Sacred Host because in the process of making linen fabric you beat the fronds of the plant, similar to how Our Blessed Lord was scourged. I always enjoy learning about why the Church does what she does, and the point behind all of the small actions.

I’m embarrassed to admit that although both of my parents speak Spanish, I do not. My comprehension is about as good as an eighteen month old toddler’s. That said, each week my vocabulary is increasing, and I am trying my best to learn as fast as possible so that I can communicate with everyone. I pray for your patience with me as I am learning.

The Latin word that the Church uses for “love” (as a verb) is “diliges”. “Diliges” is the word used for tending sheep, watering a plant, feeding your children. The Church seems to connect “love” and “work” in a beautiful way. During my time at St. Frances Xavier Cabrini I hope that through my work for you all, I can indeed be afforded the grace to mimic Our Blessed Lord’s meekness and show you that I am,

Your humble servant, Isaiah Silva