Growing up in Miamisburg as the oldest of five children, Deacon Jasek was blessed with a family that placed the Catholic faith and a relationship with Jesus at the center of life. He is particularly grateful for the time they made to pray each evening—often the Rosary—and to gather with other Catholic families twice a month for prayer, fellowship, and catechesis. The Lord has blessed the Jasek family with multiple vocations: last year, Deacon Daniel Jasek was ordained as a deacon alongside his father, Chris; his sister, Sr. Elizabeth, is with the Mercedarian Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament in Baton Rouge; and his great-great uncle, Aloysius Wycisło, was the bishop of Green Bay. He has a devotion to St. Joseph because this saint is a powerful model for all men—especially fathers and spiritual fathers—through his radical obedience, humility, and chaste-yet-fruitful fatherhood.

When did you first think you might have a call to the priesthood?

The priesthood was not something I seriously considered until a summer at the University of Notre Dame. While serving at the Mission of Our Lady of the Angels with the Franciscans of the Eucharist of Chicago, I encountered Jesus’ love in a powerful way, especially through the sisters’ witness. These women had freely given their entire lives to Christ and had an authentic joy and fullness of life that was deeply attractive. Jesus began to transform my own heart as well, as I felt a tug to make a similar decision to be “all in” for Him.

Who are the people who have helped you the most on your journey? How did they help you?

I owe a debt of gratitude to so many. I am especially grateful for Fr. Jarred Kohn, the first seminarian I knew, for inspiring me to pray, embrace my manhood in Christ, and ultimately enter the seminary. I am grateful for the encouragement of my family and many brother seminarians and for my priest formators at the seminary, the priests who took me under their wing at various parishes, and my spiritual director, Fr. Christopher Armstrong. I am also indebted to Mary, my heavenly Mother, who has protected my vocation under her mantle.

What changes in yourself have you noticed since formally saying “yes” to the priesthood?

Before I entered seminary, my soul was very restless. Since I began formation, I have experienced a deep peace and a great sense of fulfillment. There is a profound joy in having your life come into focus around a singular mission.

What has surprised you most since joining the seminary?

It has surprised me that seminary is not a “magic bullet.” As with any vocation, there is a need for me to recommit to the Lord each day and undergo constant conversion. Every priest and seminarian—including me—are still human, complete with weaknesses and shortcomings. Yet, God’s grace somehow shines through in unexpected ways: “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Cor 12:9).

What stood out during your internship year?

I was given a more focused and honest view of daily priestly life. On one hand, I saw the difficulty and stress that comes with the ministry, especially for pastors. On the other hand, I directly experienced some of a priest’s great joys, including helping a men’s group begin, forming a young dad for his confirmation, building life-giving relationships with many parishioners and school children, and experiencing lively priestly fraternity.

Following the ordination, what aspect of your vocation are you most excited about? What part feels most daunting?

Celebrating the sacraments, preaching, and seeing the miracles God will work in His people’s lives are what I’m most excited about! I especially look forward to celebrating the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass—the greatest act any man could be honored to undertake. What feels daunting is the demanding nature of the ministry and workload and those times when I will need to speak a hard or challenging truth in charity.

Mr. Rev. Daniel J. Jasek, has been assigned Parochial Vicar of Our Lady of Visitation, Cincinnati; St. Joseph, North Bend; and St. Jude, Bridgetown.