Michael Hess (University of Wisconsin–Madison, ‘16) had prayed, “Lord, allow my will, to align with your will,” for ten years. This prayer changed his life and pushed him in the direction of seminary. Michael felt as though God was showing him where he was most needed over several years but didn’t recognize he had bigger plans until he was approached by several priests, all explaining their wish for him. It was then that he realized these messages he had been receiving and the car accident he was spared from were all part of a bigger plan that pushed him into the life he was meant to live. This is Michael’s story on how he landed on priesthood and how God led him there.
In college, Michael made it a point to bring Jesus into every room. He didn’t want to miss out on socialization and making friends, but it was important to him that he kept his morals in check. Many students fall into temptations during their time in college, and he didn’t want that to be part of his journey. Later, it was made known that he ended up leaving a positive impact on his friends who grew close to him and strangers who simply witnessed his behavior. Being part of the Fraternity allowed him to expand his friendships as everyone had similar virtues and morals. They were all heavily involved and well known in the church and the Greek community, which also brought them together.
With an education in engineering, he joined a company in California and began moving up the ladder. Through small talk, jokes, and prayer Michael slowly led many people on the job sites closer to God. He was able to teach those who became curious and ended up sharing the word of God every day with those surrounding him. Before Michael knew it, he became a missionary in the workforce. Later, he even took it further to host prayer groups on the tranquil beaches of Southern California. He enjoyed bringing people together and leading them in prayer. He felt a small call to priesthood but thought he was living the life God intended him to live through his missionary work in the workforce.
Even though he felt secure in his career and friendships, he began wondering if there was something more that God was calling him to. He began receiving several messages and offers to push him to make a change.
On January 5th, Michael was leaving a rosary and catching up with his friend, Mary, on the phone. He quickly realized he had made a mistake as he saw the red light passing his windshield after swiping his phone to view his map. Everything lit up around him as a Chevy Tahoe hit him. Remarkably, everyone walked away unharmed, but both vehicles were totaled. He realized that his guardian angels had protected him as he looked around his vehicle. His prayer cards had flown up and landed on his passenger seat, all face-up showing Mary, the mother of Jesus. This experience shook Michael, but he was released that day by any doubt he could have possibly had. He was determined to make some changes and live for God through his plans and less of his own.
Michael Hess
It took many conversations and a huge leap of faith, but he is now currently in his first of six years of formation. This includes two years of philosophy and four years of theology. Michael is attending Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit but studying for the Madison Diocese. All along his journey, it is a continual discernment.
This story was written from the details in the following interview:
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