I was Suspended from High School TWO Times - Then I Became a Priest w/Fr. Eric Garris // EP13
Introduction
In our latest podcast episode, we had the privilege of sitting down with Father Eric Garris, a dynamic and approachable priest from the Diocese of Cleveland. From discussing his unique role as a vocation director to delving into personal anecdotes and even addressing the controversial topic of dinosaurs, our conversation covered a wide array of topics. Join us as we provide a glimpse into the life and experiences of Father Eric Garris in this insightful blog post.
The Role of a Vocation Director
Father Garris sheds light on his responsibilities as the vocation director for the Diocese of Cleveland. Tasked with encouraging individuals to consider a life in the priesthood, he organizes various events, runs adoration sessions, and engages with young people to help them discover their calling. It becomes evident that his role involves both personal connections and event coordination, making the vocation ministry a unique and multifaceted endeavor.
Building Relationships and Seeking Advice
One fascinating aspect of Father Garris's role is the network of vocation directors across different dioceses. He emphasizes the importance of building relationships with fellow directors, sharing insights, and seeking advice when faced with specific challenges. This collaborative approach ensures a supportive network that benefits both the priests and the communities they serve.
Longevity in Vocation Ministry
Discussing the duration of service in vocation ministry, Father Garris mentions the example of Father Mike McCandless, the second-longest-serving vocation director. Reflecting on the importance of time in building relationships and trust, Father Garris highlights the uniqueness of each priest's journey in this special ministry.
Flexibility and Adaptation
Father Garris shares his personal experience transitioning from a parish role to becoming a vocation director. He emphasizes the flexibility and adaptability required, especially during challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Building relationships and establishing connections in different areas of ministry takes time but is essential for effective vocation outreach.
The Mystery of Assignments
Exploring the topic of priestly assignments, Father Garris reveals the process involved in applying for new assignments. While priests can express preferences, the ultimate decision lies with the diocese. The conversation unveils the intricate dynamics of priestly assignments and the considerations involved in ensuring priests are content and fulfilled in their roles.
Father Garris' Personal Touch on Social Media
In this segment, Father Garris talks about his presence on social media platforms. Acknowledging the challenges of finding priests' contact information, he explains how his role as vocation director has made his email more accessible. He shares his perspective on using social media as a tool to connect with the community, promote events, and offer a glimpse into his personal life.
Conclusion
Embracing the Journey Wrapping up the conversation, Father Garris offers encouragement and invites anyone navigating their vocational journey to reach out. Whether it's grappling with questions about life's purpose or contemplating a call to the priesthood, Father Garris is ready to support and guide those on their unique paths.
As a Catholic video production company, DM Productions is honored to share these insights into the life of a modern-day priest. If you're interested in the full podcast episode, be sure to tune in to our latest release. Stay connected for more engaging conversations and inspiring stories within the Catholic community.
