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Michael A. Vogt
POSTULANT, SECOND YEAR
Age 48
Faculty Member Father Judge High School
Hometown Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Family Albert (Dad) and Mary (Mom) both still living;
2 brothers: Larry and Greg
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How long have you considered a religious vocation?
I began considering religious life as a real vocation choice while I was still in high school at North Catholic in Philly. The Oblates taught there and they played a rather significant role in my developing a personal relationship with the Lord and His Church. I admired them and found their spirit and charism to be contagious. I not only wanted to be like these guys, I wanted to be one of them.
What led to your decision to enter the Oblates? How did you know that it was time to enter?
I spent some time in religious formation/seminary when I was first out of high school and although I loved what I was doing at the time, I was not yet ready to make a life commitment. There were too many unanswered questions that I had to resolve in my own mind. However, the "call" failed to go away, even though I left the seminary. That "still, small voice" stayed with me. With age I began to get some real clarity and perspective. It was at that point in my journey that the call to religious life resurfaced even more powerfully. I spent more than two years working as a parish pastoral associate before I finally contacted the Oblates once again. I felt compelled to answer it. I lived a year as a Residential Candidate at De Sales Hall in Washington, DC and that certainly clinched it for me.
What do you like most about the Church?
I experience "Church" as a dynamic living, breathing, spiritual and human reality that can not and will not be ignored. At once, the Church is a vibrant community of the Father's Children alive in the world, daily nourished by the Sprit in Word and Sacrament. Simultaneously, it is also the faith-filled herald and messenger of the Good News of Jesus Christ to souls still stumbling around in the dark and who seek genuine meaning and purpose in their lives. Through sign and symbol, through message and proclamation the Church calls out to all in ear-shot: "There's plenty good room 'round the Table of the Lord." Here is a Church "to believe in".
What was your biggest surprise in entering the seminary?
The energy of the place and the people who live there. In the Oblates, particularly the men at De Sales Hall, I found truly dynamic people who are so energized and passionate about following Christ in the modern world. You can't help but feel the sacredness of the place and be in awe of the seriousness of their commitment. These people are fully alive. My own experience of Oblate community and ministry makes me feel more alive!
What is your favorite book and why?
The Seven Story Mountain by Thomas Merton. I've read this book several times and seem to get new insights from it during each reading. Merton somehow speaks to me at middle age as passionately as he did when I was in my 20's. His message is timeless, practical and convincing.
Favorite movie and why?
Rudy. On many levels, I really connect with the character. This movie is not just about Notre Dame Football! Hey, it wouldn't be a bad flick if that's all it was!
What do you do in your free time?
Read, go for quiet walks, watch TV, movies, plays, big fan of the Cardinals of Bishop Ireton and the Crusaders of Father Judge High Schools.
What kind of music do you listen to?
Pop, Classical, R + B, Jazz, New Age
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