Name: Deacon Tyler Arens
Home parish: St. Mary, Westphalia, MI
Home diocese: Lansing
What was the highlight of your time at Sacred Heart Major Seminary?
Going on the Holy Land pilgrimage ("Desert Formation Experience") in May, 2019.
What has been one or two highlights of your time serving as a transitional deacon?
Being able to continue in the same parish for my weekend diaconal assignment as I was last summer after ordination (St. Mary, Pinckney) has been a blessing. I’ve been able to develop meaningful relationships with the people, as well as grow in my priestly leadership. Of course, frequent preaching and celebration of Baptisms have been highlights of my diaconal ministry as well.
How are you preparing for your priestly ordination?
All the usual things—invitations, chalice restoration, vestments, guests—have all been on my mind. For some time, I've been praying for my future parishioners, especially in my first assignment, whoever they might be: that I will be a holy priest for them and not only be able to love them well but also receive love—and joy—from the Lord in that giving. Also, being ever closer to the altar serving as a deacon, I've found myself paying closer attention to the priest as he's offering Mass—not just for the "technical" stuff, like how he performs certain things. We know as priests the Eucharist is really central to our whole life, identity, and ministry, so it’s good to see how he enters into that offering with his whole spirit.
What kind of priest do you want to be?
A priest that desires greater holiness; I hope to lead other people to greater holiness and be inspired by them to greater holiness. Ultimately, we desire to have the heart of Jesus.
What are you looking forward to after being ordained?
All the varied ways I'll be able to bring Jesus to people every day. Of course, celebrating the Sacraments and especially offering Holy Mass. I'm filled with joy already thinking about celebrating my first Mass at my home parish. My parish, St. Mary, Westphalia, has produced 22 priestly vocations. Interestingly, we’re tied up with the neighboring village, Fowler. Both communities have deep Catholic roots and have been great environments for fostering priestly vocations, so it will be a joyful occasion for the whole community.
Deacon Arens will be ordained on Saturday, June 11, 2022, at St. Thomas Aquinas Parish in Lansing by Bishop Earl Boyea.
Please join us in praying for him during his final months of preparation leading up to his ordination.