Fr. Patrick Reilley faced challenges while adjusting to life in Rome, particularly with the Italian bureaucracy. Reflecting on his experience at a Roman bus stop, he considered resigning from his position at the Roman Curia. "I was telling God, ‘I don’t think this is for me, I don’t belong here, I don’t want to deal with this anymore,’" he shared.

His struggles began when trying to obtain an Italian driver's license and official residency, encountering numerous delays and complications. However, a breakthrough came when staff at an ID card office suggested he visit another office after seeing his distress. There, unexpectedly, Fr. Reilley received his residency and identity card without further issues.

Fr. Reilley has been working for the Holy See since August 2023 as part of the Dicastery for the Clergy. His role involves assisting with matters related to priests and deacons worldwide. "We cover a wide variety of areas," he explained about his department's responsibilities.

Despite not initially envisioning such a role, Fr. Reilley appreciates his work in Rome as it aligns with his canon law training aimed at serving on the diocesan marriage tribunal back home in Wichita. "It’s a different kind of ministry, but a very necessary one," he remarked.

Living in Rome has broadened Fr. Reilley's perspective on Catholic culture compared to the United States' more private practice of faith. He noted that American Catholics are admired for their initiative in building institutions like schools and parishes.

Frustrations with local bureaucracy have also given him insight into immigrant experiences in foreign lands. "There are countless things people take for granted that are very difficult for someone who is not a native speaker," he observed.

Despite these challenges, Fr. Reilley remains committed to his role in Rome as part of God's plan: "Yes, the Lord is taking care of me along the way."