We are a unique diocese. I say this with love, as we look at the diversity of our make-up and the geography of the places we call home here in South Jersey. I also say this looking at our diocesan crest and the three elephants that find their place there. Another unique aspect of our diocese is the love the bishop has for his seminarians and for vocations.
Our bishop wants to know the men who are in formation with us. He takes time to make sure that he speaks with them and encourages them on their journeys. His support, in so many ways, helps us to grow in our love for the priesthood and the great Diocese of Camden, where we hope to serve in our priestly ministries.
I remember when I was in First Theology, Bishop Sullivan was installed as the bishop for our diocese. It was just a few weeks after this installation that we celebrated Holy Week. The bishop, who had met us informally before, now wanted to share a meal with us on that Wednesday before the Sacred Triduum.
As we gathered together, the bishop gave us a beautiful reflection on the importance of the next three days. He knew we would also be serving with him throughout those days, but as servers you often miss the beauty of what is happening during those three beautiful days. He took that time to walk with us through the Sacred Triduum to help us spiritually prepare for what was going to happen.
Our bishop was happy to walk with us and to help us encounter Christ in our journeys of faith. I knew, as a seminarian, I had his support and his fatherly care. Our men in formation today also know this as well. Even with his busy schedule, the bishop takes time to send cards for their birthdays and for the holidays. He makes time to be with them and to learn about them and their families.
As I look back, I am thankful for the times I had with him. The time I was able to spend with the bishop showed his full and rigorous schedule, and how he made it a priority to get to know his seminarians even amidst his busy schedule.
Many bishops, because of their schedules, find it hard to meet with their men and to walk with them. We are blessed to have a bishop who is so willing and happy to do so. He is a good example for all of us on the importance of working hard and doing the best we can for the people we serve.
Father Adam Cichoski is Director of Vocations for the Camden Diocese.
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