Men of the Hearts

“Stop trying to figure it all out and trust… Just take that courageous step to not be afraid and see what’s on the other side of your yes.” Fr. Mark Livingston joins Men of the Hearts podcast hosts Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. Drew Mabee to talk about his unique vocation story. Raised Catholic but distant from the faith for much of his young adult life, Fr. Mark’s journey to the priesthood was sparked by a 30-day prayer commitment and included a life-changing pilgrimage to Medjugorje, quiet hours in adoration, and encouragement from his pastor.(0:02) Hosts Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. Drew Mabee welcome listeners and introduce their guest, Fr. Mark Livingston. Fr. Mark begins the episode discussing the unique beauty and history of his parish buildings, built with stones collected by farming families. He reflects on the culture of small-town ministry, from parish festivals and county fairs to kids showing off their lambs and pigs.(11:50) Fr. Mark looks back on his life growing up Catholic in Detroit, before the divorce of his parents in his teen years led him to drift from the Church. Despite academic and professional success, he felt spiritually empty and far from God. He made a 30-day prayer commitment with a glow-in-the-dark rosary and experienced a powerful encounter with the Holy Spirit that sparked his return to the Church.(17:00) While on a pilgrimage to Medjugorje, Fr. Mark had a dream that led to a profound experience of healing while praying the Stations of the Cross.(27:45) Jesus in the Eucharist became a place of refuge, healing, and growing intimacy for Fr. Mark. His pastor at the time, Fr. Bob McCabe, had “a huge, huge influence” on his discernment for the future, opening his eyes to the possibility of a later vocation to the priesthood. He spent time discerning with various religious communities before realizing that he was being called to the diocesan priesthood. (36:15) Fr. Mark reflects on two serious relationships from young adulthood, including one that lasted nearly eight years. He talks about the challenge of ending those relationships when he sensed that God was calling him to a different vocation.(44:20) Fr. Mark shares about his time at Sacred Heart Major Seminary, touching on some of the challenges he faced being older than many men who pursue the priesthood. He advises those entering seminary to do so with a humble heart, willing to be stretched and shaped by God.(49:15) The episode concludes with reflections on healing, formation, and the need to bring one's whole self before Jesus in discernment. Fr. Mark encourages listeners—especially older men—to trust that God can use every part of their story to build something beautiful. He then closes the episode with a prayer.

Archbishop Edward Weisenburger, the new Archbishop of Detroit, shares his heartfelt vocation story, reflecting on his early call to the priesthood and his rich ministry experience across various dioceses. He reminisces about the election of Pope Leo XIV and his encounters with Popes Benedict XVI and Francis. The Archbishop also offers touching insights on the transformative power of service, the significance of community prayer, and the importance of authenticity for those discerning the priesthood.

“This call is unique, and beautiful, and special, and adventurous, and amazing for anyone who wants to take it on.” Fr. Jaime Hinojos visits the podcast studio to share his vocation story with Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. Drew Mabee, hosts of the Men of the Hearts podcast. He reflects on his journey from childhood in Chihuahua, Mexico, to the priesthood in the Archdiocese of Detroit. The conversation touches on cross-cultural ministry, the role of mentorship, and practical advice for those exploring the priesthood.(0:26) Fr. Craig and Fr. Drew welcome listeners and introduce their guest, Fr. Jaime Hinojos. They share Easter celebrations, reflect on the passing of Pope Francis, and remark on the richness of the Easter Vigil with newly baptized and confirmed members. Fr. Jaime expresses his admiration for Pope Francis and describes how the pope's pastoral love and simplicity left a deep mark on his soul.(4:25) Fr. Jaime shares the inspiration behind his own podcast, “TheoScience,” which blends his love of theology and background in engineering. He discusses how faith and reason are complementary, not opposed. He notes that his podcast is mainly in Spanish but occasionally features English content as well.(10:59) Fr. Jaime recounts how his spiritual journey began with a male prayer group in Chihuahua, Mexico. His prayer life intensified through music, Scripture, and personal reflection. He describes a mystical experience in which he heard the word sacredote, Spanish for priest, during deep prayer and saw himself vested in green — an early confirmation of his call.(20:20) Fr. Jaime’s early discernment continued to develop through his participation in an all-night Eucharistic adoration group. A providential connection through a friend led him to Fr. Bob Wurm in Michigan, setting his journey to the U.S. priesthood in motion.(28:26) Fr. Jaime credits a “pioneer spirit” with his decision to pursue the priesthood in the U.S. rather than Mexico. He remembers making little headway speaking with a religious order. He emphasizes the value of perseverance in discernment and shares the advice he received from spiritual mentors who encouraged him not to leave the seminary, even during hard times, unless asked to leave.(33:48) Fr. Jaime recalls learning the importance of presence over agenda when ministering to the sick. All three priests discuss how growth comes through challenge and change, encouraging young men to remain faithful in their discernment journey through any setbacks or confusion.(48:49) Fr. Jaime emphasizes the need to foster a culture of vocations in the Hispanic community and shares how he regularly encourages young men to consider the priesthood in joyful and lighthearted ways. He then describes the warmth and vibrancy of Hispanic Catholic culture — marked by food, family, and deep reverence for blessings.(52:00) Fr. Jaime offers advice to men discerning: Pray before the Blessed Sacrament and don’t carry fear about failure. He shares how a priest once told him, “You don’t have to be a priest,” liberating him from anxiety and allowing him to freely embrace his calling. His parting message encourages discerners to be joyful, flexible, and faithful. He then closes the episode with a prayer.

Fr. David Kidd, Director of Diocesan Priestly Vocations for the Diocese of Toledo, shares his unique journey to the priesthood that began as an altar server. He reflects on how life experiences, including college and military service, shaped his calling. Fr. Kidd emphasizes the importance of divine guidance and personal stories in discerning one's vocation. He also discusses how studying in Rome enriched his understanding of faith’s universality, and he offers advice to those contemplating a similar path, encouraging prayer and community involvement.

“The priesthood is beautiful. Keep thinking about it. Keep praying about it. It’s worth it.” Fr. Pieter vanRooyen, pastor at St. Joseph Parish in Ypsilanti and an assistant professor of theology at Sacred Heart Major Seminary, joins Men of the Hearts hosts Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. Drew Mabee to talk about his journey to the priesthood. Having been raised in a nominally Catholic household, it wasn’t until he was in college at Michigan State University that Fr. Pieter first began thinking about the priesthood. He shares how his devout grandmother, a high school friend, and a campus Christian group influenced his growing faith and helped open his eyes to his priestly vocation.(0:27) Hosts Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. Drew Mabee introduce their guest this month, Fr. Pieter vanRooyen, pastor at St. Joseph Parish in Ypsilanti and an assistant professor of theology at Sacred Heart Major Seminary. He shares some recent blessings, like participating in Exodus 90 with the men of his parish. Fr. Drew shares his own experiences with Exodus 90. Our hosts and their guest then talk about Fr. Pieter’s interest in motorcycles.(8:53) Fr. Craig, who serves as Director of Priestly Vocations for the Archdiocese of Detroit, talks about a recent dinner and evening prayer with Archbishop Vigneron, attended by more than 200 young men discerning the priesthood. Fr. Drew pauses to express gratitude for Archbishop Vigneron’s years of ministry and slips in an invitation for Archbishop-designate Weisenburger to be a guest on the podcast after he’s installed as Archbishop of Detroit on March 18. (10:22) Fr. Pieter begins sharing his vocation story. He grew up in a nominally Catholic household—he was baptized and received First Communion and Reconciliation, but attended Mass mostly on holidays and was not confirmed as a young teen. When he was in high school, his family moved closer to his devoutly Catholic grandmother, who taught him about the faith and arranged for him to be confirmed. (18:37) Fr. Pieter talks about breaking up with a steady girlfriend and feeling “crushed” by the loss, but ultimately asking himself whether he had “made an idol” of the relationship. He explores the difference between preparing for marriage and casually dating. Even married couples should look to God, not their spouse, as their ultimate source of satisfaction.(22:59) Fr. Pieter enrolled at Michigan State University in the fall of 2001 on a scholarship from the Air Force through ROTC. Within weeks of the semester starting, the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks occurred and Fr. Pieter considered dropping out and enlisting. After some thought, he decided to stay in school. He began attending Mass periodically with a suitemate as well as a Bible study.  (30:26) Fr. Pieter recalls spending spring break in Panama City, Florida to attend a Campus Crusade for Christ conference, during which students were sent out “two-by-two” to share the Gospel with beach-goers. One fruit of this trip was Fr. Pieter began praying every day: “Jesus, I give this day to you.” He also began to seek answers about his Catholic faith and returned to Reconciliation for the first time since second grade.(42:12) During the summer before his sophomore year, Fr. Pieter lived with his grandmother in Chicago. It was during this time, while at Adoration with his grandmother, that he first asked God what he should do with his life. In response, the thought unexpectedly came into his head to be a priest. Fr. Pieter shares how he initially dismissed the thought but later told his grandmother, who helped connect him with a priest to explore the vocation.(54:07) After a few years of discernment and living in accordance with Church teachings, Fr. Pieter graduated from MSU and entered Sacred Heart Major Seminary in 2004. He was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Lansing six years later. The group spends some time talking about how a person’s conversion can come dramatically and suddenly, like the conversation of St. Paul, or more gradually, like a sunrise. (59:21) Fr. Pieter shares what a young man can expect from the academic, spiritual, and recreational life at Sacred Heart. He also shares his advice to young men considering the priesthood. The episode closes with a prayer.

Fr. Mario Amore, Director of Evangelization and Missionary Discipleship for the Archdiocese of Detroit, shares his captivating journey to the priesthood, filled with unexpected twists and early influences in music and altar service. He reflects on transformative moments at a recent conference and the impact of meaningful faith stories on youth. Fr. Mario also discusses the inspiring 'I Am Here' podcast, emphasizing the importance of community in vocational discernment and the beauty of everyday spiritual encounters.

“Recognize that the Apostles were just fishermen. They were just tax collectors. They were sinners. They were imperfect, normal dudes like you.” Fr. Pierre Konja joins Men of the Hearts hosts Fr. Craig and Fr. Drew to talk about his journey to the priesthood for the Chaldean Eparchy of St. Thomas the Apostle in Detroit. He encourages young men in discernment to “go to the Gospels” and allow themselves to “fall deeply in love with God.”(0:26) Hosts Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. Drew Mabee introduce their guest this month, Father Pierre Konja, a Chaldean priest from the Eparchy of St. Thomas the Apostle in Detroit. Father shares about the Eparchy, an ecclesiastical province separate from the Archdiocese of Detroit but still in communion with the Holy Father. (4:36) The group discusses vocations work as Father Konja reflects on his time serving as vocations director. He connects the role of the priesthood with fatherhood, particularly for vocations directors who are tasked with helping young men discern and preparing future priests for “the fruitfulness and the challenges and the joys of the priesthood.” Fr. Konja then segues into sharing his own story of discerning his vocation to the priesthood. (7:54) Fr. Konja’s journey to the priesthood was straightforward: “I've always loved God. I always went to church, and then fell in love with God, and then I wanted to serve God.” He also shares the advice he gives to seminarians that also applies to everyone seeking their vocation in life: Go to the Eucharist, go to the Word, and go to the Gospels. Fr. Drew and Fr. Craig provide updates on their lives and ministries.(13:10) Conversation turns back to Fr. Konja’s early life and vocation story. Born and raised in Detroit, he attended Catholic school and went to church regularly with his family. He felt challenged in his faith while attending University of Detroit Jesuit for high school, but continued to pray and attend daily Mass periodically. The group then talks about the strong culture of faith in the Chaldean community.(19:57) Fr. Konja recalls first considering the priesthood during his junior year of high school, inspired by his theology teacher who first introduced him to the Catechism of the Catholic Church. He shares his devotion to Thérèse of Lisieux, especially her “Little Way” spirituality. He recalls going on a pilgrimage to Rome during the summer after graduating from high school, and later attended Oakland University while continuing to discern the priesthood. He ultimately applied and entered the seminary a year later.(29:34) Fr. Konja talks about the diversity of clergy in the Chaldean Church, with some who have immigrated here and others who are American-born. While some may draw distinctions between these groups, Fr. Konja says there is great unity within the clergy community. Father Craig remarks that no two days are the same as a priest, especially as a vocations director. Fr. Konja then talks about the Eastern Catholic Evangelization Center, a lay-run evangelization ministry overseen by the Eparchy.(34:30) The group discusses how Chaldean men are able to join religious orders. There is also a Chaldean women’s order called Daughters of Mary Immaculate. They then discuss Marian consecration and the need for every priest to have a relationship with the Blessed Mother. Fr. Konja talks about efforts in his parish to livestream Masses and reach people through social media.(39:01) Fr. Konja talks about spending a year in an Iraqi seminary serving as assistant to the rector and reflects on some of the differences he saw between the Iraqi and American Christian communities. He gives his advice to young men trying to hear the Lord. The episode concludes with an invitation for listeners to visit a Chaldean church to experience a new expression of our shared faith, and then a prayer and blessing.

Fr. Jim Kean, a cradle Catholic and former collaborator with Mother Teresa, shares insights into his profound journey of faith and the gifts of the priesthood. He emphasizes the importance of discernment, urging young men to embrace their vocation with courage. Fr. Jim reflects on his childhood, shaped by family and community, and recounts memorable experiences, including a revealing moment at a high school party that led him to consider the priesthood. His stories highlight the joy of serving and the transformative power of faith.

“Whatever my own plans for myself are, [they] are nothing compared to His plan for me.” Fr. Clint McDonell joins Men of the Hearts hosts Fr. Craig and Fr. Drew to talk about the people who influenced his priestly discernment, his role as Director of Undergraduate Seminarians at Sacred Heart Major Seminary, and his love of teaching Latin. He closes the episode with his advice to young men considering the priesthood: Talk, pray, read, and work. (0:26) Hosts Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. Drew Maybee introduce their guest this month, Fr. Clint McDonell. As a member of the Sacred Heart Major Seminary faculty, Fr. McDonell has been preparing for the upcoming academic year while also taking some time to rest. He shares about a recent trip to see friends in South Bend, Indiana, where he celebrated Mass and had lunch with Gianna Emanuela Molla, daughter of St. Gianna Beretta Molla. The conversation then turns to Fr. Clint’s love of teaching Latin at Sacred Heart.(13:59) Fr. Drew provides an update on his new assignment at Holy Family Parish in Novi, where he’s been struck by how deeply parishioners love the Lord and by what he calls a “good communal connection” between the multicultural congregation. Meanwhile, Fr. Craig has just returned from the annual seminarians’ retreat at Manresa with Archbishop Vigneron. (19:49) Fr. Clint is asked to share his vocation story, which begins at age 10 or 11 when he first began serving as an altar boy because he “just wanted something to do during Mass.” He started to appreciate what was going on during the liturgy and had a great role model of the priesthood in his pastor, Fr. Ed Prus. He first thought about attending the seminary while in high school, but ultimately took a full scholarship to university before finally enrolling at Sacred Heart.(27:20) Fr. Clint talks about individuals who influenced his vocation to the priesthood, including his parents, his childhood pastor, a single conversation with a college roommate, and the Blessed Mother herself. He also talks about some of the hobbies he has maintained as a priest, including hiking, camping, and kayaking.(44:38) Fr. Clint shares more about his role at Sacred Heart. In addition to teaching Latin, Fr. Clint serves as director of undergraduate seminarians and is tasked with implementing the “Discipleship Phase” of the seminary’s Program for Priestly Formation. He identifies and defines the four stages of the program: The propaedeutic (or preparatory) stage; the discipleship stage during which a seminarian learns what it means to follow Christ; the configuration during which he is configured to Christ the priest; and the vocational synthesis stage that puts all of this formation together as a man begins to live out his vocation as a transitional deacon before priestly ordination. Our hosts also talk about Sacred Heart’s emphasis on human formation, helping men develop the virtues necessary for the rest of their development into priests.(52:43) Fr. Clint closes the episode with his fourfold advice to young men discerning a call to the priesthood: Talk to your priest, a seminarian, or anyone else who may be considering the same call; pray for the Lord to continue providing direction; read more, shutting everything else off because our noisy world makes it harder to hear the Lord; and work, get a job, and build up a solid foundation of self-accountability and discipline.

Fr. Brian Cokonougher, a spiritual director for seminarians at Sacred Heart Major Seminary, shares his unique journey to the priesthood, which began later in life. He discusses the recent Eucharistic Congress and its uplifting impact on the community. Fr. Brian emphasizes the importance of surrendering anxieties to Jesus and how personal passions, like playing the trumpet, can harmonize with his ministry. The conversation also touches on the transformative power of prayer and the deep connections formed in parish life.