Nativity Seminarian John Rumpza

My name is John Rumpza. I am the third of eight children, born and raised in St. Paul. From preschool, I attended Nativity School, and continued to Trinity for high school.

Starting in high school, I was open to a call to priesthood, attending discernment retreats and initiating conversations with the local Vocations Director. Despite my openness, I did not hear a call. So I began to look forward to a holy married life while pursuing a promising business career at Benedictine College in Actchison, Kansas.

In this career, I experienced a continual lack of fulfillment, even while working in roles that utilized my strengths and brought success. Deep down, I couldn’t shake this sense that there was a very unique path for me which God was waiting to unveil. Several months ago, I began to understand that this path may be priesthood, and felt great peace in beginning Pre-Theology this fall at The Saint Paul Seminary.

I am enjoying my time at Seminary thus far, finding a good balance of schoolwork, community involvement, and time with my family. Some my hobbies include composing and producing music, playing sports, and riding a motorcycle. I will be praying for you. Please pray for me too!

This reflection has been edited from its original version published in the parish bulletin and posted here on 10/29.