Father Rob Renaud(2020)

Discover the Vocation Episode

What did you do prior to entering seminary?
Throughout my twenties I worked as a mental health counsellor. In my spare time I volunteered with the Knights of Columbus as a 4 ^th Degree member and I became active in Christ in Others Retreat (COR) in roles such as big brother.

What influenced your decision to apply for  seminary entrance?
When I was young, I had a strong desire to serve the people of God as an altar server and in youth ministry. I was also the person in my high school that people approached when they had difficulties. I followed this path that God set before me and I arrived in a career as a Social Worker. Over time I noticed that deeper spiritual questions arose among my clients that I could not answer, I needed to look deeper. I found many of these answers when I became more active in my church community. With the spiritual guidance of my parish priest, I started to consider another path: To enter the seminary to discern becoming a priest.

Why do you want to be a priest?
To bring Jesus Christ to the people. We all need him in our modern day, more than ever.

What are your favorite pastimes?
I really enjoy the outdoors. Hiking, fishing, camping and kayaking especially.

What is your favorite quote?
“Out of the darkness of my life, so much frustrated, I put before you the one great thing to love on earth: The Blessed Sacrament. There you will find romance, glory, honour, fidelity, and the true way of all your loves on earth.” – JRR Tolkien
Who is your favorite Saint and why?
Pope St. John Paul II has been very influential to my faith and family life since I was a child. He arrived in Canada on the day I was born in 1984 and I stood meters away from him at World Youth Day in Toronto. I pray that I might model my priesthood on the love he showed for the Church and its people.

What advice would you give to a young man thinking about the seminary?
Speak with your parish priest and find ways to become active in your church community. Spend more time in Eucharistic adoration to deepen your relationship with God. If in your prayer you feel a draw to become a priest, contact the vocations director and ask about a Come and See weekend at St. Peter’s Seminary.