The Glenmary Home Missioners have five men discerning with the society as novices this year, the most they’ve had since 2009.
The novices—Joseph Maundu, Thomas Nguyen, Fredrick Ochieng’, Cavine Okello and Cyrus Samba—are among 11 total men in formation for Glenmary.
For the novices, this year is a time for each man to discern more deeply their call to the Glenmary way of life. They are granted time for prayer, study of Glenmary history, and spend time serving in a Glenmary mission. At the end of this year, the men should have greater clarity to their call as a Glenmary Home Missioner. The conclusion of the novitiate year normally leads to first oath.
“These five men have demonstrated a sense of sincerity and joy to enter into the challenges of the novitiate year,” said Glenmary co-Novitiate Director Father Steve Pawelk. “Each of them brings a unique history, spirituality and personal gifts as potential Glenmary missioners. I am impressed with their care for each other and the deep enthusiasm they bring.”
Father Steve, and Father Tom Kirkendoll, will guide the men throughout their novice year, which began June 20.
Glenmary is a Catholic society of priests, brothers and lay coworkers who bring the Catholic faith and a heart for the poor to rural parts of Appalachia and the South.
If you or someone you know may have a calling to serve the people of God in the U.S. home missions, visit Glenmary.org/vocations to learn more or contact Vocation Director Brother David Henley at vocations@glenmary.org.