Father Nick Le ’09 Shares Journey from Marist Student to Priest

Fr. Le began by describing himself as a "pretty normal kid" who loved sports and hanging out with friends. While attending church regularly, he viewed faith as a separate compartment in his life, not its core. It was during a summer spending extended periods of time at the Georgia Tech Catholic Center that he experienced a breakthrough. Away from his usual routines, he deepened his prayer life and discovered a profound peace and joy he had not known before. This experience led him to prioritize his faith, integrating it into all aspects of his life. He continued dating, working, and playing sports, but with a newfound focus on his relationship with God. Ultimately, God led him to discern a call to the priesthood.

 

Fr. Le acknowledged the sacrifices involved in the priesthood, including leaving behind certain relationships and activities. However, he emphasized the deeper joy and fulfillment he found in dedicating his life to serving others and God.

 

"While I lost friends and had less time with friends, the friendships that remained were deepened," he said. "And even as a seminarian, I was a groomsman in eight weddings, and my friends have asked me to be a godparent to eight kids."

 

He described his life as a priest as a "wonderful adventure," filled with travel, meaningful connections, and the constant presence of God.

 

Fr. Le concluded his homily by inviting the Marist community to consider placing Christ at the center of their own lives. He emphasized that this will not diminish anything good in life but rather allows God to surpass expectations.

 

"A vocation, following God, and having faith come first in your life does not diminish anything that is good about you or life. But it allows God to actually transform it, making it greater than you can imagine," he said.

 

The Vocations Mass and Fr. Le’s homily served as a powerful reminder of the importance of faith and the potential for joy and fulfillment that comes from living a Christ-centered life. Marist School is grateful that Fr. Le returned to campus to share his inspiring journey and impart invaluable wisdom, igniting a renewed sense of purpose and direction within the Marist community.

 

View photos from the Vocations Mass.