Deacon Klare is the third of seven children, his mom is one of ten, and his dad is one of seven. Big family parties and cousins coming over to play were staples in his childhood. Growing up in this big family instilled an enduring love for family life. An extrovert, he loves time with others but also took up the hobby of bookbinding under the patronage of his internship parish—St. Columbkille, whose saint is the patron of bookbinders. His favorite saint is Mother Teresa, who showed up in his prayer life powerfully during some difficult times, always reorienting him to Jesus. Deacon Klare cherishes every opportunity he’s had to serve the poor alongside the Missionaries of Charity, particularly one summer in a San Francisco hospice for the homeless.

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

My first thoughts were around my confirmation in the seventh grade. However, I never seriously pursued the vocation until after I graduated college. Nevertheless, God kept calling me. Eventually, I couldn’t ignore it.

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

Those who have most helped me on the journey include: my family, in raising and supporting me in the faith; inestimably, my friends, for living the faith alongside me, inspiring me, and challenging me to grow; the priests and religious (too many to count!) who have been a perennial witness to me of the beauty of a life given over completely to God; and families, whose witness of the true vocation to family life gave me the support and courage to surrender my love of family life to God, the Author of life, who always gives good gifts to His children.

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

When I entered seminary, I was willing to be a priest if God really wanted me to be one, but I was reluctant. Now, I love the priesthood and consider myself beyond lucky to have been called. In many ways, I’m speechless that God asked me! Furthermore, I’m indebted to the seminary for forming me in the spiritual life. I had so much to learn about obedience, commitment, humility, prayer, study, and leisure!

What has surprised you most since joining the seminary?

I had no idea the seminary was full of so many inspiring young men who want to follow God. I thought I was going to be one of only a few men interested in the priesthood. I was surprised to find a vibrant and full community and fraternal life.

What stood out during your internship year?

What an amazing blessing parish life is! Everyone knows the challenges, but I have become increasingly grateful for the powerful grace of parishes in the world. It is wonderful to consider how many people encounter God, learn to pray, overcome vice, grow in virtue, devote themselves to works of charity, live their vocations, and pursue sanctity—all through the ministry of the parish!

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

I am most excited to celebrate the sacraments, particularly Mass and confession. Imagine holding Jesus in your hands… Imagine saying in the Person of Christ, “I absolve you from your sins.” I know I am not worthy to be God’s priest. I hope I learn to lean on God and the parish community and not only myself; for I know that without His grace and the community’s support, I am not up to the task.

Rev. Mr. Benjamin J. Klare has been assigned Parochial Vicar St. Cecilia, Cincinnati and St. Mary, Hyde Park.