Join us in this enlightening episode of Desert Wanderers, where we sit down with Brother John Paul from Verbum Spei. Discover his unique journey of faith, from a multicultural upbringing in a Kiwi-Filipino household to discerning his vocation in the heart of New Zealand. Brother John Paul shares his experiences of attending a transformative Catholic summer camp, navigating seminary life, and his adventurous path through Mexico and Luxembourg. Listen as he reflects on the importance of community, the beauty of religious life, and the profound impact of prayer and scripture. Whether you're discerning your own vocation or simply curious about the life of a religious brother, this conversation offers valuable insights and inspiration.

Chapters:
Chapters: (00:00) Desert Wanderers interviews priests, religious, and others in Boise diocese

(00:51) How did you discern to become a brother with Verbum Spei

(02:34) Did your parents ever talk openly about becoming a priest?

(09:17) What catholicism looks like in New Zealand

(14:44) The beginning of the end

(14:58) Were you thinking about becoming a priest?

(16:08) Did your parents ever talk to you about joining the priesthood?

(23:42) Fr. Dom's influence

(26:45) Do you think the Psalms were really influential in your life (33:08) How are you instructed to deal with suffering?

(41:41) trying to meet the person of Christ

(42:58) visiting Mother Teresa's lepper colony

(47:52) How long did it take you to rejoin with the brothers in Mexico

(54:45) Lent was to learn Spanish

(55:18) entering the novitiate in Mexico as a novice

(59:09) I love to wear the habit!

(01:05:48) How was it for your parents to see you come off the plane in your habit

(01:08:33) You spent time in Mexico and then went to Luxembourg for a year

(01:11:42) What can parents do to open up religious life to their children