Written ‘Nods
Below are ‘Nods to priests who have made a favorable impression in someone’s life. It’s important to let our priests know they are appreciated, respected, and supported.
Want to create your own ‘Nod? Click the “Create a ‘Nod” button to learn how you can submit a video or audio recording, orgininal artwork, or a written statement.
Fr. Donald Calloway, MIC
Your life is a beautiful reminder that God can write a story of redemption in anyone’s heart. Your journey to the priesthood and your devotion to sharing the love of Christ have inspired so many people to believe in the power of mercy and the possibility of a new beginning. Through your words, your witness, and your love for Our Lady and St. Joseph, you continue to help others draw closer to God. May the Lord continue to guide your priesthood and bless the many lives you touch.
Staff submission
Bishop James Misko
Thank you for being open about your journey to the priesthood. Knowing that you didn’t take the traditional path reminds so many people that God calls each of us in His own time. I’m sure there are men who have wondered if they missed their chance, and your story gives them hope that it’s never too late to answer that call. As one of the faithful here, it’s been a joy to welcome you to our diocese. Your humility and steady presence have already made an impression, and I’m excited to see where the Lord leads you as our bishop. Please know you’re in my prayers, and we’re grateful to be walking this next chapter with you. God bless you.
Gideon
Monsignor Steven R. Camp
After so many years of being part of this parish, I can truly say that your presence has been a gift. Your homilies have a way of reaching the heart—not just reminding us of our faith, but helping us live it more deeply in our everyday lives. Thank you for the way you shepherd St. Patrick’s with such care, wisdom, and devotion. You have walked alongside so many parishioners through seasons of joy, uncertainty, loss, and growth, always pointing us back to Christ. Your words have encouraged me, challenged me, and helped me continue growing in my relationship with God.
Maureen
Fr. Grant Colborn
There’s something incredibly encouraging about hearing a priest share that his vocation wasn’t always obvious—that even someone raised in the faith can take time to recognize where God is calling them. As a young adult who was raised Catholic, wandered for a while, and eventually found my way back, your story reminds me that God is patient. He doesn’t stop calling us just because we’ve taken a different path for a season. Thank you, Fr. Grant, for the way you share your journey with honesty and humility. Your style is relatable, and genuine, making the faith feel like an invitation rather than an obligation. It’s a gift to see a young priest who connects with people so naturally and reminds us that God can work through every chapter of our lives. Thank you for answering His call and for helping others hear theirs.
Staff Submission
Fr. Jacob Butz
Your dedication to reaching young people through retreats, outreach, and moments of faith formation has been a beautiful gift to the Church. By walking alongside the next generation, you help them discover the love of Christ and remind them that they have a place in His Church. We are grateful for your courage to answer the call to the priesthood and for the “yes” you have given to serve God’s people. May your ministry continue to inspire others to seek Christ and grow in faith.
Staff Submission
Fr. Mark Bernhard
Fr. Nicholas Rapkoch
Some men answer one call in life. You answered another when God asked for even more. Thank you for sharing your journey from military service to the priesthood. It reminds us that courage, sacrifice, and service don’t end—they simply take on a different purpose. Thank you for being the kind of priest who leads with quiet conviction and faithfully serves the people God has entrusted to you. Your witness speaks louder than you probably realize, and your ministry is deeply appreciated. May God continue to bless and strengthen you.
Tyler
Msgr. Joseph Donnelly
Thank you for all the years you have given to serving the Church and the many people whose lives you have touched along the way. Your work as a priest, especially in guiding and forming others, is such an important gift to the Church. Helping future priests grow in their vocation is something that has a lasting impact, and the fruits of that work will continue for years to come. Thank you for your kindness, your wisdom, and for being the kind of priest who reminds people of the beauty and importance of this calling.
Stephen
Fr. George Sears
A ‘Nod for the many ways you have served the Church and the people entrusted to you throughout your priesthood. Your work in seminary formation is such an important part of your vocation because by helping form future priests, you are helping shape the shepherds who will one day serve countless communities. The time, wisdom, and guidance you have given to seminarians is a gift that reaches far beyond the walls of the seminary. Thank you for investing in the future of the priesthood and for the lasting impact you have made through your faithful service.
Staff Submission
Fr. Christopher Keenan
Your ministry is a beautiful reminder that a priest’s vocation extends far beyond the walls of a church. Through your service with the fire department, you bring the presence of Christ to those who run toward danger and carry the weight of protecting others. Thank you for showing parishioners that the collar is not only seen at the altar, but wherever people need hope, comfort, and a reminder that they are not alone. Your service is essential, and your witness to the priesthood is a gift to so many.
Joanne
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