1. With your ordination date set for June 2016 here in Houston, what will your course of study be in Rome until that time, and where will you be assigned after your ordination?

My time in Rome will most likely total 5 years. There are 2 cycles of study. I am in my third year of the STB program, which is similar to a Masters of Theology back in the United States. After that I will specialize in a particular theological field, and that degree is called an STL. As of right now, I am not certain what I will go on to study for the second cycle. After I finish that I will be assigned to a parish in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston somewhere. I doubt St. Michael though...

2. Since much of your classroom instruction is conducted in Italian, how are you faring?

I am doing fine. It was a little daunting at first, but my Italian has come along so the language barrier really isn't too big of an issue.

3. How many men are in Rome studying with you at the Pontifical North American College?

There are about 225-250 other guys from the US studying over here. It's a pretty big seminary, not too far from the Vatican. They come from all over the country, and there are even several Australians and Canadians living here.

4. What has been your greatest joy thus far as you have prepared for the priesthood?

It has been an interesting journey so far, to say the least. My greatest joy has been deepening my relationship with and understanding of Christ. Accompanying that, I would have to say it has also been a joy getting to know a lot of other good guys who are doing the same thing as me.

5. Is there anything you miss when you are living in Rome?

I actually don't miss too much. I do miss seeing my family and eating Mexican food though.

6. What is on your favorite Italian menu?

Pasta Carbonara and Saltimbocca. And wine.

7. What do you do with your leisure time?

I like to get out and explore the city. I also have been able to travel around Europe some, which has been nice.

8. Do you have a favorite saint? Why?

Probably St. Augustine because his conversion story he wrote about in Confessions is always an interesting read. He lived 1,600 years ago and his experience is just as relevant to anyone today as it was back then. We also study a good portion of his theology.

9. Have you had the opportunity to be in the presence of Pope Francis?

Yes, but in a setting of a couple thousand people. He met with the seminarians who live in Rome and had a question/answer session with us. There have been many guys in the seminary here who have met him, so I imagine I will meet him at some point in my stay over here.

10. How can our Knights of Columbus Council continue to support and encourage you on this journey towards the priesthood?

Three Requests: Prayer, prayer, prayer. I appreciate your support, and look forward to seeing you back in the diocese.

Clark Sample is a St. Michael Catholic School graduate, studying in Rome at the Pontifical North American College. Our Council has supported Clark since 2010