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Brannon Givens
Novice
Hometown Raleigh, NC
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How long have you considered a religious vocation?
I have actively considered a religious vocation for two years prior to joining the Oblates Formation program.
What led to your decision to enter the Oblates? How did you know that it was time to enter?
I met Mickey McGrath on a retreat in NC where he began to speak about Salesian Spirituality. I really liked what he had to say and spoke with him about my discernment. He put me in touch with Mike Castrilli and Pat Kennedy who met me for breakfast and shared their experiences and thoughts and gave me further interest in the program. Through them, I met then Vocation Director Kevin Nadolski who walked with me with incredible holy patience until I made a firm resolution to join in 2010. I knew it was time to enter when I visited DeSales Hall in March and felt like was at last in the right place doing what I was made for. (I know that sounds corny but how does one describe divine providence!)
What do you like most about the Church?
I love that our Church is ever ancient and ever new. We constantly grow in the love of God while not just knowing but understanding where it is we have come from.
What was your biggest surprise in entering the seminary?
My biggest surprise at entering was how easy it feels. There were not any real bumps or issues, I just felt like I came home.
What is your favorite book and why?
I have two favorite books actually. The first is the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams and the other is C.S. Lewis The Chronicles of Narnia. I love these two books because one reminds me to use my head while the other reminds me to use my heart.
Favorite movie and why?
My favorite movie changes all the time, right now I'd have to say Inception because it makes you think and completely engages you through the entire film.
What do you do in your free time?
In my free time I love to get out and explore where I am. I'll often hop the metro over to the Mall and wander in and out of museums and around monuments. I love people so I am usually either with friends, or making new friends.
What kind of music do you listen to?
I really listen to all kinds of music. I love everything from pop music to jazz to classical to R&B, and of course classic rock. In general I like any kind of music that lifts you up and makes you feel.
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