Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

Austin Adams and Josué Reyes Díaz, seminarians for the Diocese of Orlando, have been participating in the Poverty Immersion Program at Catholic Charities of Central Florida. The program aims to help future priests understand and serve various communities by engaging directly with those in need.

Adams, a former accountant from Corpus Christi parish in Celebration, expressed his fulfillment working with Catholic Charities. "I’ve loved every single second of this – all the hours I’ve had to put in. It’s just wonderful getting the opportunity to serve the community," he said.

Reyes Díaz, who moved from Puerto Rico to Florida in 2007 and became a parishioner at All Souls in Sanford, found personal resonance with families he assisted. Reflecting on his experience, he noted, “The reality that as we help these people, we’re helping more than just the people present here. There’s a whole family we’re going to feed.”

The Poverty Immersion Program is part of St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary's propaedeutic year. This initiative emphasizes spiritual development over academics to aid seminarians in discerning their vocation to priesthood. Father Dominic Buckley explained it focuses on developing an interior life with Christ.

During their time at Catholic Charities, Adams and Reyes Díaz worked under Juan Vega, director of the Food Pantry. Reyes Díaz praised Vega's leadership: “He is a great leader,” adding that Vega helps them process daily experiences for deeper insights.

Deacon Gary Tester, president of Catholic Charities of Central Florida, highlighted the importance of this ministry: “We are truly blessed to have the opportunity to share with Austin and Josué the joy of ministering to the poor and vulnerable.” He hopes these lessons will remain with them throughout their lives.

The program runs from January 5-28 and includes service at various facilities within Catholic Charities such as Family Stability office and Pathways programs.