How to become priest



Ordination. Photo Marjo Virtanen.

In Finland you need to be first Master of Theology, and then got a job at least for 6 months and finally to be accepted by Bishop and chapter (tuomiokapituli). When all this happens, Bishop “makes” you priest by blessing you his hands on your head. You’re priest.

 

All this took for me about 8,5 years.

 

How I became priest? This is my journey.

 

Ever heard of calling? That God calls someone to do something for His Kingdom. It’s a very powerful calling. I tried to fight it back some 10 years. I was born into a religious family. I’ve believed in God as long as I can remember. And one night as 8-10 year-old child it hit me: religious people become more often priests. Then it felt insuperable and I prayed God to plan me something else.

 

Isonen. Confirmation camps
enrich expressions.

15-year-old Heini in THE confirmation camp -> best time ever! I found my place with other youngsters in our parish.  And as I was later doing confirmation camps as helper (isonen), my stubborn head started to turn: I want to do this for living. God, OK, I say yes. No other occupation inspires me like this one.

 

OK, the basic problem solved. More to be solved.

But I’m thankful for all the obstacles there has been. Firstly: I didn’t pass the exam to study at university at the first time. But at the second time I did and I started my studies at the University of Helsinki. Secondly, I never liked studying that much, but the goal kept me going on. Every Summer I had a summer job at some parish in Finland. Besides having an awesome time, I learned great deal about priest job and Summer jobs have strengthened my calling.

 

(3) 2014, my graduation was approaching. Do I really want to do this, to be priest? I’d be different than others, what things I still can do and what not, my life would be an example, do I have enough words for different situations, do I have all the ability needed. These kinds of questions I was wrestling. It took about 6 months to have all the answers. Many conversations with Jesus. He called me to serve with the ability I have. With the talents He created in me. And I serve best being me.





 



Crepes and other adventures.

I started to apply jobs. (4) I’ve written tens of applications, rarely got invited for an interview. It could have been depressing to hear “No” after “No”, but I wasn’t that worried. I’ll got THE job, when God thinks I’m ready for that and when I can handle it. While waiting, I even got another study place in Jyväskylä, where I found my home too. And while waiting I’ve lived, not waited, and learned more about life, got to know new amazing friends and deepened old friendships.  Every experience has prepared me for priesthood.


 

2^nd of June 2016 turned my life: I got a job, which was made for me. Which was meant for me, I dare say. At my home town Lohja. 50%, so I can continue my cross-country skiing “career” and have the best parts from Jyväskylä and Lohja. My job gives me so much joy! But the main date is 18^th of December 2016. I became priest. My heart races a bit faster when I think it: I’m priest. This feels good. I’m in the right place. This is my calling. This is my journey. I don’t know what is ahead, so lead me Jesus. Give me everything I need on this path.

 

God bless you.  

Haggenegg, Schwyz, Switzerland.

 By the way, I’m still Heini and I will still laugh and joy, I will live!