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Brian Zumbrum
Brian is in annual vows and is on the faculty at Father Judge High School, Philadelphia, PA
Age 25
Hometown Harrisburg, PA
Family father: David; mother: Patricia; brothers: Kevin and Stephen;
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Discuss how long you have considered a religious vocation? What is your vocation story?
I have been considering a religious vocation since grade school. My recently departed pastor showed me what a priest could be, through his selfless charity and compassion. Even through high school, where my faith in God and her church wavered, I never fully abandoned the idea of becoming a priest. After reaching DeSales University, I met the Oblates who allowed me to join my two great callings: teaching and being a priest. After that, my path seemed clear, and I joined the seminary after my graduation in 2007.
What led to your decision to enter the Oblates? How did you know that it was time to enter?
The Oblates, first and foremost, blended my desire to teach high school history into a broader vocation as a priest. Two, the men I met in the Oblates were amazing witnesses to their faith, their passion for social justice and their love of one another. Finally, the Oblates live a lifestyle that is optimistic, gentle, compassionate, forgiving, and built on loving relationships. I knew once I met them that I had found my place. Our church is a living witness that all men and women can stand as equals, regardless of their race, class, former creed, sexuality, ability, talents, or failures. We as beloved children of God can live and work together through our church to help bring about a more just and peaceful world, under the loving watch of our heavenly Father.
What was your biggest surprise in entering the seminary?
The size of my room, the early hour of morning prayer and, most of all, the tremendous sense of community among the brothers who welcomed me quickly into the Oblate family.
What is your favorite book and why?
I am constantly reading all types of books from historical texts to philosophical dialogues to fantasy novels. My current favorite is Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. I was especially drawn to the world of imagination that Rowling creates, while appreciating the trials and tribulations that these flawed characters must overcome to allow good to triumph and love to prevail.
Favorite movie and why?
My current favorite movie is Hotel Rwanda. That movie summed up the best and worst of humanity, while challenging all of us to fight for a world of peace, justice, and brotherhood among all people.
What do you do in your free time?
Read, write, surf the Internet, listen to music, go to different cultural events, hang with friends, and talk on my new cell phone.
What kind of music do you listen to?
Anything except most rap and some country. I especially enjoy most "pop" music, showtunes, movie soundtracks, Christian, and classical instrumental.
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