Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

Deacon Augustine Reimers shared a personal story about his journey to answering the call to shepherd God's flock. Reflecting on his experience, he recalled the unexpected moment when his science teacher conveyed a divine message to him, saying, “I think our Lord wants me to tell you that he is calling you to shepherd his flock.” This encounter left him both shocked and scared initially, prompting him to contemplate the prospect of entering the seminary.

Despite his apprehensions, Deacon Reimers found solace and guidance through the teachings of Father Benjamin Holdren, a new priest at Aquinas Catholic High School. Father Holdren's lessons on vocations and God's unique calling for each individual resonated with Deacon Reimers, gradually freeing him from the fears and doubts that had plagued his discernment process.

Drawing parallels to the encounter of Jesus with the Samaritan woman at the well, Deacon Reimers emphasized the importance of surrendering one's life to God in order to receive abundant blessings beyond imagination. He expressed his growing love for serving God's people and his anticipation of spreading the Father's love through his ordained ministry.

Deacon Augustine Reimers' testimony serves as a testament to the transformative power of faith and the journey of discerning and embracing one's vocation within the Catholic Church.