Matthew Valles

 

4th Theology
Saint John's Seminary, Brighton, MA
 

Biography

My hometown is Barrington, Rhode Island, and I study theology at St. John's Seminary in Brighton, Mass. The Parish of the Resurrection of the Lord is my home parish. Conversations with priests of the Diocese of Portland, frequent reception of reconciliation and Eucharist, as well as my daily prayer life led me to apply for seminary.

With regards to priestly ministry, I look forward to bringing Jesus to others through the sacraments as well as talking with others about the deeper meaning behind Church teachings. To those who are discerning the priesthood, I say what Jesus tells us in the Scriptures in terms of his peace: "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, do I give unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, nor let it be afraid" (John 14:27).

Fun Facts

Hobbies: Swimming, running, biking, hiking, cross-country skiing, reading, singing, making rosaries

Favorite authors: J.R.R Tolkien, Thomas Merton, J.K. Rowling, Tan Twan Eng, Bill Bryson, Fr. Michael Gaitley

Favorite movies: Forrest Gump, Lord of the Rings

Favorite music: Audrey Assad

Favorite sports teams: Boston-based teams

Favorite foods: Carrots, peanut butter, leftovers, cheese, apples, greens, lobster

Favorite Bible passages: Moses and the burning bush (Exodus 3:1-21); "...though he was in the form of God...." (Philippians 2:6-11); Prodigal son or running father parable (Luke 15:11-32.

Favorite churches: St. John in Bangor, Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Portland, Holy Family in Old Town, Our Lady of Wisdom in Orono, St. Ann in Bradley, St. Ann of Penobscot Nation, St. Alexander's of Warren, Rhode Island, St. Luke's of Barrington, Rhode Island

Favorite saints: Mary the Mother of Jesus, St. Matthew, St. Thérèse of Lisieux, St. Teresa of Kolkata or Calcutta, St. Ann, St. Joseph, St. Dominic, St. Ignatius of Loyola, St. Francis, St. Gemma Galgani, St. Peter, St. Paul

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