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Ryan Cronshaw
Pre-Theology
Hometown Kennett Square, PA
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How long have you considered a religious vocation?
I first considered a religious vocation when I was a senior in high school at Salesianum. I was attracted to how happy my Oblate teachers were, and how fulfilled they seemed in their choice of vocation.
What led to your decision to enter the Oblates? How did you know that it was time to enter?
I was involved in my campus ministry as an undergrad at Virginia Tech. As I got more involved with ministry there, I began looking for ministry opportunities during the summer when I was away from campus. The vocation director for the Oblates suggested I participate in the Nativity Prep Summer Program (a live in discernment/ministry experience). That proved to be a very powerful experience of both community and ministry for me. After graduation from VT, I participated in a “year of service” program as a lay campus minister for the Catholic Campus Ministry at Virginia Tech. As the year was ending, I began reflecting on my experiences, and I decided that God was calling me to a life service in the Church. The Oblates had such a great influence on me during so much of my life, that joining them seemed like such a natural fit.
What do you like most about the Church?
There are two things I really like about the Church. The first is the tremendous amount of diversity that exists amongst us. With such a diverse Catholic community, and such diverse interests, we are able to reach so many people in all walks of life in numerous ways. The second thing I really like is the amount of emphasis our Church places on service. I think that we are better able to understand Jesus’ gospel messages when we are building relationships with the poor and marginalized through our love for each other.
What was your biggest surprise in entering the seminary?
The amount of emphasis that is put on forming the whole person. We are not only taught how to be good religious, but also we are taught how to be good people. It is very comforting to me that we work on all aspects of our humanity.
What is your favorite book and why?
One of my favorite books is Finding Darwin’s God by Kenneth R. Miller. It is written by a Catholic cell biologist, who does a great job of demonstrating how science and religion don’t necessarily have to be viewed as being in opposition with one another.
Favorite movie and why?
If I had to pick just one movie, it would be Fight Club. I really enjoy the plot and the way the movie portrays the afflictions of the main character. Other favorites include Inception, American History X, and October Sky. I also really like the TV series It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.
What do you do in your free time?
I listen to a wide range of music: mainly rock, rap, pop, and jam bands. My favorite band is O.A.R.
What kind of music do you listen to?
I love spending time with friends and family. I also enjoy traveling, reading, watching movies, going to concerts, and spending time at the beach. I am also an avid Philadelphia Flyers fan.
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