The path to the priesthood depends not only on the dedication and commitment of future priests but also on the support and generosity of our community. The Annual Seminaries Appeal is a key part of this process, as it provides the necessary resources for forming and guiding those who have responded to God’s call.
Deacon José Delgado is about to fulfill a dream that began to take shape in his teenage years: to become a priest. The future priest expressed his deep gratitude for the support he receives from the archdiocesan community.
“The people of the Archdiocese of Denver are very generous, and I know that without that generosity, it would have been impossible for me to become a priest. That’s why it’s so important for people to donate and support us because only then can we support each other on the journey toward Jesus,” he said.
Originally from Greeley, Colorado, and in his final year of formation at St. John Vianney Seminary, Deacon Delgado reflected on the call he first felt at the age of fifteen, a calling that has led him to dedicate his life to the service of the Church and others.
“My first memory of feeling called to the priesthood was when I was fifteen or sixteen years old. During my preparation for the sacrament of Confirmation, I loved learning about the Mass and the priesthood,” he shared.
Specifically, the figure and example of St. John Bosco sparked a special interest in the future priest and got him started with studying “what a priest does and what a priest is.”
“We are called to rescue others; that is, to help others know Jesus and have a transformational friendship with him,” shared Deacon Delgado when speaking about the mission of the priest, and, in fact, of the Church. For him, this mission “is a way to help them and me as well.”
As the end of his seminary formation approaches, Deacon Delgado reflected on the challenges faced by the priesthood in this apostolic age.
“Being a priest today is not the same as being one fifty years ago. Today, people don’t really know what the Church is or who God is. That’s why it’s important for more men to think about this vocation and bring the message of love and redemption through Jesus Christ to the whole world. We need good and holy priests!” he explained.
During his time at St. John Vianney, Deacon Delgado has served in the towns of Akron, Brush, Littleton and Denver, as well as in the parishes of St. Gianna Molla, Risen Christ and St. Cajetan, where he is currently.
“Making friends with young people has filled my heart with joy. I have truly felt what God wants for me: to teach who he is,” said the transitional deacon, emphasizing that his ministry in catechesis and with youth ministry has helped keep his commitment to the priesthood renewed.
Among the many ways the seminary prepares men for priestly mission, Deacon Delgado highlighted daily Holy Hours, both in community and alone, as well as the accompaniment of a spiritual director “who helps you pray better, listen to God, and grow in friendship with God. From there comes the love for others. God is the source of holy priests who love the people.”
Through your donation to the Annual Seminaries Appeal, more than 100 men receive comprehensive formation for mission in this apostolic time. With theological studies, spiritual accompaniment, opportunities for prayer and retreats and assignments in various parishes, our seminarians are being prepared to be spiritual leaders in their communities. Your donation to the Appeal is not just a financial contribution, but an act of faith and a commitment to the future of the Church.
“Donations and prayers are essential to continue this path of growth in friendship with God,” concluded Deacon Delgado, highlighting the importance of this support in his life and in the lives of his fellow seminarians.
To support the seminarians and those discerning the call to priesthood, visit archden.org/futurepriests.
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