Local
Meet our seminarians: Deacon Charles Madi

By
Posted: 2/9/2007

Deacon Charles Madi. Home Parish: St. Mark, Dorchester Seminary: St. John’s Seminary High School: Institute Kinshasa Democratic Republic of Congo, Africa College: St. Augustine, Senegal, Africa Graduate: St. Cyprian School of Theology, Cameroon, Africa Ordained to the transitional diaconate: Jan. 27, 2007 Pilot photo/Gregory L. Tracy

---

When was the first time you thought of priesthood?

The first time I thought of priesthood was just after high school. I attended Catholic school and there we had a retreat each year. From this retreat, I began my love of the priesthood.

What were major Catholic activities you participated

in prior to the seminary?

I went to the 2005 World Youth Day in Cologne, Germany. I participated in many groups in my parish (youth group, Legion of Mary). I attended the seminary discernment retreat before entering St. John’s.

What is your favorite Scripture passage? Why?

My favorite Gospel is that of the Evangelist John. John especially focused not only on a presentation of Jesus, but also on the intimate relationship between Jesus and the Father. Jesus models the relationship we must develop with the Father. The symbolic language used in the Gospel of John edifies me. For a lesson in good discipleship, meditation on John's gospel is very useful.

How did you come to know Jesus Christ?

I belonged to a youth group called ‘‘youth of light.’’ This group helped me to discover Jesus Christ and to become His friend.

How does the priest best follow in the footsteps of

the Apostles?

Threefold. Life of word (living and preaching the Gospel), Sacrament (to offer sacrifice and to forgive sins) and pastoral charity (which is a specific virtue of priesthood).

Please describe the importance of prayer in your life?

Prayer is my arm and my food. I pray and meditate on the Word of God and I love listening to Him who speaks. Without prayer my life would not make sense and I would be left without a strong foundation.

Who influenced you/inspired you to priesthood?

My pastor had great influence on me. His life (prayer, particular attention to the poor and elderly) was a source of inspiration and growth for my vocation.

What influence (if any) has Pope John Paul II had

on your vocation?

John Paul II was and is a model for me. He was a great inspiration for my vocation. His humility, simplicity and life of prayer was inspiring and attractive.

Through the cardinal, God is calling you personally to help rebuild His Church. How must the priest respond to this mandate today?

The priest has to respond to his mandate today according to what the bishop recommends. For a good ministry, the priest needs to be a man of prayer. He also has to be a model in faith, devoted to the teaching of the Church and devoted to the breaking of the bread (Eucharist), the source of his life and ministry

The Pilot, in cooperation with the Office of Vocations, is publishing a series of brief profiles of the men preparing for the priesthood in the Archdiocese of Boston. For other profiles or if you think God may be calling you to a vocation to the priesthood or religious life, visit the Vocations Office Web site at www.VocationsBoston.org.