Vocations Office Welcomes Three New Seminarians

“We are excited to welcome three new seminarians this semester,” writes Father Alex Zenthoefer, Diocesan Director of Vocations and Pastor of Annunciation of the Lord Parish in Evansville.

Gavin Steckler enters Bishop Bruté College Seminary in Indianapolis this semester as a sophomore. Steckler had previously been a Diocese of Evansville seminarian. “We are happy to welcome him back,” Father Zenthoefer said.

“In addition, we welcome two new men from Mexico, Juan Ramirez and Martin Estrada, both of whom have finished their seminary studies,” he added. Father Zenthoefer told The Message that neither Ramirez nor Estrada have been ordained deacon or priest. They will be living and working in the diocese as both they and the diocese discern if God is calling them to serve in the Diocese of Evansville.

Ramirez will be working with the Diocesan Office of Hispanic Ministry while in residence at Annunciation Parish in Evansville. He will be getting to know the various Latino communities throughout the diocese and assisting with Sunday liturgies.

Estrada has been assigned to Our Lady of Hope Parish in Washington. He will be assisting Fr. Paul Ferguson and his staff with the care of that community.

Father Zenthoefer also reported that Benjamin Dahlquist has decided to step out of formation for the Diocese of Evansville. “Please keep him in prayer as he seeks God's will in his life,” he said.

“Thank you for your prayers for all those who are discerning God's call,” Father Zenthoefer added. “Please help us to continue to foster a culture of vocations where women and men feel the freedom and the joy of responding to the Lord's invitation to serve.”