VOICES OF NAC

What has Rome taught you?

When the Holy Father speaks, it is truly words of love addressed to a worldwide audience. The international experience of the Church Universal imparts an appreciation for the particular. Rome has taught me to be grateful for the friends, mentors, and family who, by their own example of faith, first taught me to believe and now continue to strengthen my faith.

Rev. Mr. Samuel Anderson ’23, Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend

Rome has taught me that the “Great Commission” to go out to all the world and preach the Gospel is still being fulfilled in our midst. The universality of the Church, of which we in the United States are privileged to be a part, is seen in Rome more than anywhere else. It is a great gift to be formed in the heart of the Church as priests of Jesus Christ.

Stephen Jones ’24, Archdiocese of Oklahoma City

Rome has taught me humility in the face of history. The Eternal City reminds us that our present time is only a brushstroke on the canvas of history. It expands our horizons, including our concept of history which it concretizes. This is particularly true regarding the lives of the saints over the last two thousand years, many of whom are in Rome—we stand on the foundation of those gone before us. Faced with this, my only response is humility.

Christian Hamrick ’25, Diocese of Nashville

From my short time living in the city of Rome, I have learned the importance of simplicity—a quiet moment in my room which would be dull if there were not a loving Father handing it to me; or a rush of emotion while gaping at the cupola of St. Peter’s which would be senseless if there were not an Incarnation in which to rejoice.

Thomas Kollasch ’26, Diocese of Sioux City