A job for life
FATHER ANDREW LAGUNA, S.J.
Who is your favoritesaint?
It’s hard to narrow down, but Ilove Saint Peter the Apostle. Hekeeps messing up, but the Lordjust loves him and continuesinviting him to be a companionand servant. I can relate to that.
What do you likeabout community life?
It is a gift to live with men of various talents who have given theirlives to the Lord and desire to behis co-worker and companion.
Community life can have its challenges, but overall I am a betterperson because of the Jesuits withwhom I share my life.
What is your bestprayer style?
The Ignatian Examen [a set ofprayer prompts initiated by thefounder of the Jesuits]. I lovesitting with God and savoring theconsolation given me that day.
The Examen grounds me andgives me direction.
Any hobbies?
I love to run or hike outdoorswhen I can. The beauty of naturecalms me and makes me feelclose to God.
What’s the best partof your currentministry as a pastor?
I receive a lot of life when Icelebrate the sacraments and justspend time with parishioners. It isa privilege to witness their deepfaith, hope, and love, and I amcontinually inspired.
Priests don’t tend to worry about “job security,” butnonetheless Father Andrew Laguna, S.J. is pretty surepeople will keep wanting what he and his communityare offering. “Even though it seems that people arebecoming less and less explicitly religious in theUnited States, I think that there are more seekersthan ever,” he says. “More and more are drawn tospirituality, are searching for something beyondthemselves. This desire is at the heart of what itmeans to be a religious.” When Laguna discoveredhow much he loved helping with parish retreats, heconsidered priesthood, met an encouraging Jesuit,and 11 years ago cast his lot with that community.
COUR TES Y OF FATHER ANDRE W LAGUNA, S. J.
PRIESTS
