Hello, my name is Joshua Link, I am 23 years old and I am in my second year of Theology at Mundelein Seminary. Before joining seminary I attended Wahlert Catholic High School here in Dubuque. I am from a small loving family with one sister who is now attending the University of Northern Iowa. I enjoy playing sports such as basketball, baseball, golf, and Ultimate Frisbee, as well as being with my friends, and watching movies.
Q&A
Where and when did your sense of call develop?
I first sensed God’s call to the priesthood when I was in 5th grade at St. Joseph, Key West. It was an all school assembly to hear a religious sister speak. Although I do not remember what the speech was for, I only remember hearing her say her final words to the school, “We need more priests”. Those words have stuck with me over the years, helping me realize my calling to the priesthood.
What advice would you give to a man considering the priesthood/seminary?
To any man considering priesthood/seminary I would say this, God calls everyone in different ways and if you think you may have a calling, don’t ignore it because it will not go away. Also to get in touch with a priest to discuss the possibility of joining seminary to further discerning God’s call.
How did your friends and family react when you told them that you were considering the priesthood?
My family is behind me 100% of the way with my choice to discern the priesthood. They were so happy when I made the decision. Although sometimes they tend to wonder if I’m happy or making the right choice. Every time I always tell them yes, I am. On the other hand, I never thought my friends would be ok with my being in the seminary, but I guess I was wrong because my friends have been very supportive of my discernment.
Were you hesitant or nervous to take the first steps to enter the formation process?
When I first entered seminary I was very hesitant. I didn’t want to officially enter until the day before school started. I put it off as long as I possibly could because I had no idea what to expect or what was going to be expected of me.