Our Seminarians
Our Seminarians > Uriri Melchizedek John Okrokoto
Uriri Melchizedek John Okrokoto
Home Parish: Our Lady of Sorrows, Corona
Seminary: Cathedral Seminary Residence, Douglaston
I finally said “YES” to the Lord. Oh what a day that was; a truly wonderful day, a day in which my eyes, my ears, and my heart were finally opened. I felt like Jeremiah saying yes to God.
I entered formation for the priesthood of Jesus Christ in 2008. Before entering the seminary I was enrolled in a secular college and I was working in a nursing home. Helping others has always been an important part of my life. I want to be a priest, because I feel that God is calling me to care for His people in a unique way. A priest is a man who acts in the person of Christ to bring healing through the Sacraments.
I have not been a seminarian for long, but it may sound strange, but it is truly amazing. In some ways, life is not all that new; I know that sounds strange, but I truly feel that this is where God wants me to be, for I am at peace.
For a man considering a vocation to the priesthood, I would advice him to try to go to Mass daily, try to become familiar with the teachings of the Church to a greater degree. Especially if you are thinking about being a priest in Brooklyn or Queens, get involved in your parish, for this is where you will be. I have been blessed to have known Father James Kuroly, who has been a truly wonderful example of priesthood. Get to know the priests in your parish, listen to them, talk to them; they have a great deal to share.
During this time of reflection, make sure that you are praying; remember, God calls, we must listen, and we do this in prayer. Remember that Jesus called men, who were not perfect, who had to learn; in many ways this is what a seminarian is, one who is learning to follow Christ like the apostles.