Name: Joseph Simbre

Age: 25

Hometown: Fresno, California

Languages: English

Ministries during novitiate: Ministry of Care with St. Norbert parish in Northbrook, Ill., and cooking meals for the hungry at Pho Tam, an outreach ministry of this Vietnamese restaurant in Niles, Ill.

Favorite book: “The Giver” by Lois Lowry

Tell us about a time when you felt God’s presence:
I felt God’s presence during the 30-day Jesuit retreat, which took place during the novitiate year. Although it was challenging to remain silent during the retreat it helped prevent distractions from my prayer.

When did you first feel the call to be a missionary?
I first felt the call to be a missionary when I participated in campus ministry in college. Journeying in faith with other students helped me realize that I was called to serve as such in my vocation.

How has living with the SVD brothers and priests at Techny inspired you?
Living with the SVD brothers and priests helped me see what living in community means. I have enjoyed witnessing their friendship and experiencing connections with them as well. I appreciate all the meals, activities, conversations, jokes that I shared with the SVD brothers and priests at Techny. My experiences and friendships with them mean a lot to me.

What was the biggest challenge during this past year?
The biggest challenge for me was the contemplative aspect of the novitiate. With my personality, I find it difficult to sit still, and I enjoy doing many things with many people. However, I came to really appreciate the silence and solitude of the novitiate over time. It taught me how to be at peace with just myself and God.

What are your hopes for the coming year?
I am excited to begin my theological studies at Catholic Theological Union. I will be studying in the Master of Divinity for Ordination program. I am sure that this program will make me a better minister for others in the future.