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Year for Priests: Reflecting on vocation, ministry

Name: Father Lawrence (Larry) McCarty

Birth date: Jan. 11, 1936

Hometown: Perry

Education: Iowa State University, Loras College, Mt. St. Bernard Seminary

Ordination date: June 1, 1963

Current assignment: Retired

Interests/hobbies: nature/outdoors, yard work and reading

Call to priesthood: I had given some thought to the priesthood when growing up, but only while I was attending Loras College did I act on it. Several faculty members suggested I consider entering the seminary. I did, and from day one it seemed it was what I should do.

Anyone provide inspiration: My family was a real inspiration to me. My parents were real devoted to the church and active in their faith. I observed that and, in retrospect, I believe that was the biggest motivation for me in pursuing a vocation to the priesthood.

Difficult decision: It did not seem to be a difficult decision at the time. Like most young people, I possessed a lot of idealism in pursuing my goal in life. Only later on did the reality set in of being alone and knowing I would never have my own family. Spiritual motivation/the grace of God is what sustains a person.

Enjoy most: Sharing God’s Word and the Eucharist with the people at Mass is the most satisfying thing I do as a priest. I enjoy people and the opportunities one has as a priest to minister to people in all the situations that arise in life, good and bad. In every assignment I have had, I have found people to be great and I have been inspired by them.

Devotions/prayers: Praying the breviary is an important daily prayer for me. There are certain devotions that I pray every day, including a devotion to St. Peregrine and to Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal.

Worthy vocation: Priesthood provides a great opportunity to serve people. All of us have spiritual needs and hungers, and priesthood allows a person to help people fulfill those needs.

Say to young man considering it: Undertake a process of discerning. Ask yourself if your motives are right for pursuing a vocation to the priesthood. Pray for Divine guidance, be actively involved in the church and discuss the matter with family and with priests you know and in whom you have confidence.