Deacon Matthew Sawyer

What did you do prior to entering seminary?
Before beginning my formation in the Philosophy program, I was a student at St. Michael's Catholic Secondary School in Stratford, Ontario. After discerning to leave after my second year of seminary formation, I spent a year delivering furniture before moving on to work a year in an automotive factory. After my time in the workforce, I chose to return to school and finish my philosophy degree at King's University College. After finishing my philosophy degree, I returned to St. Peter's Seminary to begin Theological studies.

What influenced your decision to apply for seminary entrance?
I was very involved in Parish life growing up; I think the first thing I did after Frist Communion was to sign up to be an Altar Server. Serving is something I continue to do even today. I also joined the leadership for Children's Liturgy and even Ushered for a while as well. Being actively involved in my parish allowed me to focus on my relationship with the Lord. My parents and parish Priests allowed me to grow in faith as a youth. Seeing my Parish Priest's living out their priesthood faithfully was a massive inspiration to making the final decision to enter. 

Why do you want to be a priest?
Being a Catholic Christian is an integral part of who I am and has filled me with a deep joy and love for Christ. I want to share this love, this joy, with others. On one of our retreats last year, the retreat master said that; “To be a good priest, you must give them Jesus.” This one sentence sums up my feelings rather accurately. I want to give the people Jesus.

What are your favorite pastimes?
I love spending time with my friends and family, whether it's playing games, watching movies, or competing in hockey and basketball. I love walking and spending time outside, especially around the campfire. When I have the opportunity, I like going to the Theatre. Theatre club and Drama Class were some of the best parts of my High School experience.

What is your favorite quote?
“Pray, hope, and don't worry. Worry is useless. God is merciful and will hear your prayer.”  - Padre Pio
 
Who is your favorite Saint and why?
Choosing is tough, as different Saints meant more to me at various stages of my life than others. Right now, I would say it is St. Jean-Marie Vianney, and not just because he is the patron of Diocesan Priests. Reading about his life and the struggles he endured to listen and discern God's will in his life has been very influential in my journey. His battle with academic formation is something I can relate to whole-heartedly too. If one wants to know what the heart of the priesthood looks like, one doesn't have to look any further than the ministry of Father Vianney.

What advice would you give to a young man thinking about the seminary?
Pray! The first part of getting into a relationship with anyone is talking with them and learning about them. Spend time with the Lord in prayer! Even 5 minutes a day can open yourself up to God’s grace! Participate in the Sacraments, especially Holy Mass and Reconciliation! God is always speaking to us, but through the Sacraments, we tend to hear him more clearly. Find a spiritual director! Either your parish priest or a Religious you trust, to help guide you towards Christ.  Finally, come to a discernment weekend or join a discernment group. You'll never be able to make a fully informed decision if you don't know what the life is all about.