Name: Fr. Timothy Weed, C.S.C.
Hometown: Grand Rapids, MI
Assignment at UP: Campus Ministry – Program Director for Liturgy
Years as a C.S.C.: I entered the Novitiate in 2012, made my first vows in 2013, and made final vows last September 15. I was ordained a priest on April 7 of this year.
Favorite Scripture Passage: Micah 6:8
Favorite Saints: St. Jude – my birthday is the on the feast of St. Jude, and he is the patron saint of hopeless causes. My mom used to tell me that she prayed often to St. Jude for me. It was said in jest, of course. (At least I think it was…)
How did you know you wanted to be a priest? It took a long time to figure out that I wanted to be a priest. Part of it is discovering that it isn’t really up to what I want, but that life as a priest is a vocation given by God. It is something that God has called me to, and, through lots of prayer and discernment, I came to the realization that this is what I am supposed to do with my life. After initially dismissing the idea that I could be a priest, I began to think more and more about it. It became something that I realized needed to be pursued, and the only way to pursue that is to go to the seminary, which is what I did. Entering the seminary is one of those things where you come to realize that it’s a commitment to possibilities – the seminary isn’t there for an absolute commitment right away, instead it’s a place to help you discover God and God’s call in your life.
What made you choose the Congregation of Holy Cross? I have always been intrigued by Catholic education. Holy Cross has a strong commitment to this education; wherever we go, we go as Educators in the Faith.On top of that as well, the strong sense of family and brotherhood among the Holy Cross religious that I met and came to know early in my time in the seminary spoke to me of a life that I could live, and live in a way that was meaningful and fulfilling.
What is one way you see God’s light in everyday life? God is around us in the people that we encounter every day. Each human being is made in the image and likeness of God, and, by trying to keep that in the forefront of my mind, it seems to help me see God moving and working in the world around me. Each person brings God into focus a little bit in their own individual and unique way. It’s part of the beauty that makes the Church and our world so diverse and exciting.
What are your hobbies? I love to read and write. I am a big sports fan, especially baseball and football. (I currently serve as the team chaplain for UP Baseball!) I enjoy hanging out with friends and playing some video games (Madden and the like). I also like to fish, pretend to golf, and spend some quality time outdoors.
What is your favorite thing about UP? I love the students here at UP. The welcoming, fun, and meaningful interactions that I’ve had since I arrived here last July have been a fantastic way for me to begin my time here on The Bluff. I am excited and grateful to be here and serve at UP.
