Fr. Scott Jabo has spent years at St. Mark’s Seminary guiding young men as they discern a calling to the priesthood. Now, he said, something is shifting. According to Fr. Scott Jabo, the Vocation Director for Priestly Vocations of the Diocese of Erie and the Rector of St. Mark’s Seminary “I’m optimistic. There seems to be an increased interest in pursuing religious life.”
There are currently seven young men in seminary formation a number Fr. Jabo said is consistent with what they have seen in the past. “The number that we currently have in formation is about the same that we have had in the past few years, but I have every reason to believe that we will see an increase based on the number of inquiries I’ve had and those who have said I want to apply for the seminary”, said Fr. Jabo.
Erie Catholic Diocese
Fr. Jabo believes many young men are searching for something deeper than what the world offers. “There’s something about Generation Z, the current generation that they are looking for something deeper and studies have shown that this generation is looking for something deeper meaning than just worldly meanings and the attraction to the church”, explained Fr. Jabo.
He believes the realities of modern life may be pushing some toward faith, “There’s a lot of fame and wealth and fortune and they realize this isn’t filling the void and also there’s a lot of confusion and conflict and issues out there that aren’t attractive to them and aren’t in interest of them and they are looking for something deeper.”
For Fr. Jabo, walking alongside these young men is the most meaningful part of his work, “And then to be with them on the day of their ordination, it’s a thrill to know that I was able to walk with them through that journey and some will discern out through that journey and that’s not a bad thing because I’m grateful to have them at least pursue it and see indeed if God is calling them to do it.”
As interest grows, Fr. Jabo remains hopeful that more young men will continue answering that call. Fr. Jabo said he currently has fifteen young men signed up for a weekend at the seminary to learn more about it. He also said there’s a number of brothers and even twins who have both joined the priesthood together.