Rob Schmid, Jr.

1st Pre-Theology

Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary, Overbrook

Ordination Date: 2015

Birth Date: August 2

Home Parish: Saint Benedict's Chapel (Chesapeake Bay, VA)

High School: Salem High School (Virginia Beach, VA)

College: Christendom College (Front Roya, VA)

Hobbies: Reading, Watching Movies

What Influenced/Inspired you to Priesthood: There are two priesthood who have influenced me in my decision to pursue a priestly vocation. The first was my priest as I was growing up: Fr. Damian Abbaticchio.  His spirit of priestly sacrifice inspired my interest in the priesthood at an early age.  God called Fr. Damian to his reward in 2006 after more than 60 years of priestly service.  The second priest who influenced me was Fr. Kevin Willis.  Fr. Willis inspired me to reconsider a priestly vocation at a time when it was the furthest thing from my mind.

What would you say to a young man who thinks he may have a vocation: Do not be afraid to give yourself totally to Jesus Christ.  If you answer the call of the Lord, you will encounter the cross, but you must always look forward to the reward Christ has in store for those who love Him.

Favorite Scripture Passage: Psalm 95:7 "Today, listen to the voice of the Lord."  I pray this verse every morning at the beginning of the Liturgy of the Hours.  It is a daily reminder for me to be attentive to the many ways that the Lord is speaking to me.

Favorite Saint: St. Lorenzo Ruiz.  He was the first canonized Filipino martyr.  He left his homeland to witness to Christ in Japan during a time of persecution.  He chose to endure torture and death rather than deny Christ.  His example of love and fidelity in the face of death is an example to me of what it means to me to be a disciple of Jesus.

Anything else of note you would like to share with the Diocese: I would like to thank the people of the Diocese of Raleigh for their spirit of welcome and their prayerful support.

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