priests
Energized by working with those on the margins Jesse Esqueda, OMI From the poor of Honduras to U.S. parolees, seminarian Jesse
What is your favorite way to pray?
Esqueda, scheduled for ordination in 2013, has found his calling
Daily silent prayer before the Blessed Sacrament. This time of silence helps me to be more aware of the presence of God and more present to the people I encounter.
in reaching out, and now he finds even more joy in doing it with a band of brothers, the Oblates of Mary Immaculate.
Do you have any nicknames? I’ve had many: Jess, Spikes, J., and Chuy.
What is your favorite part of ministry?
Brother Rusty Gardiner, O.M.I.
Spending time with teens and adults who have a deep desire to turn their lives around. Another of my best ministry experiences has been volunteering in an orphanage of children living with HIV. These children helped me to experience the love of God in new and profound ways.
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What is the best part of community life? We are a group of men who care deeply for each other and for the mission. It is a blessing to know that I am not alone because my brothers are with me in times of doubt and sorrow as well as in times of joy and profound happiness.
Tell us about being called to a religious vocation. I resisted the call for many years until I finally surrendered to it. Surrendering to the will of God has been the best thing I have ever done in my life.
What do you do for fun?
What gives you hope about religious life?
I have a great time with my brothers because we don’t always take ourselves too seriously. It’s a blast when we’re together. I also love having coffee with friends or watching a good movie.
I am very optimistic about the future. I see the deep longing that most people have for meaning and purpose; consequently, I believe that my role as a religious is very important.
VISION 2013
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