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

Deacon David Tines recalls Peter's response to Jesus' teachings as a moment of faith. Raised in Lincoln as the oldest of three siblings, Tines' upbringing was marked by a hit-and-miss relationship with faith despite regular church-going with his family. He relates this to Peter's choice, recognizing the "all-or-nothing-ness of the faith."

After graduating from Pius X High School, he pursued computer engineering and business at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. During this period, Tines faced a critical choice about his faith. "I knew that walking away from the Church would be walking away from the very possibility of purpose and meaning," he shared. This led to his involvement in a FOCUS bible study.

His path took a significant turn when he felt compelled to recognize God as central to his life. This realization led him to consider the priesthood. Though hesitant about seminary, he embraced the calling, supported by God's grace and the question, “To whom shall we go, Lord?”

Tines' journey is culminating in his impending ordination as a priest. He attributes his growth to the education received at seminaries, the love from families and parish communities, and the prayers of many. "But most of all, God has been so kind to me, drawing me to himself, one day at a time," he concluded.