Even though Fr. Aric has been the Holy Family chaplain for only two years, he has already made a great impact on many of his students. He currently teaches Sacred Scripture, the freshmen theology course, runs HF’s Fire for Life club, and spends a lot of time in our school weight room. He’s become very involved in the Holy Family Community.

When we spoke with Fr. Aric, he gave us an insight to what he’s learned from his switch from his full-time clergy duties to also working as a teacher. He said that he feels that he’s able to grow alongside his students, since he sees them more than he did only as a priest. His classes often include large group discussions in which students are able to give their opinions on scripture passages. Students speak very highly of Fr. Aric;  one said he’s “always super open to questions and loves answering. You could just really tell he is so passionate about Jesus.” These students have shown us the beneficial impact that Fr. Aric has had on our community.

Fr. Aric has led many masses in his time at Holy Family. His homilies are always interesting and engaging. At a mass earlier this year, he told the touching story of how he decided to become a priest. This inspiring story helped us all to further understand the love that Fr. Aric brings to his position.

As our highlighted teacher, Fr. Aric responded to some of our questions!

• Which historical figure do you most identify with?
  • Theodore Roosevelt. When I want to be recharged, I go out into the wilderness. And I may not always see a need right away, but once I see it, I want to do all I can to help with that need.
• When and where were you the happiest?
  • Just before I started my freshman year of college, on the shore of Lake Superior, when God called me to be His priest. This same happiness returned after I was leaving the Cathedral after my ordination to the priesthood.
• Which talent do you most want to have?
  • To lift as much weight as possible, and/or to be able to hike in the mountains with ease.
• What do you consider your greatest achievement?
  • Hiking from the top to the bottom of the Grand Canyon, and back up, in a single day.
• What do you most value in your friendships?
  • To be able to share my experiences and challenges with my friends, and to receive support and/or direction from them.
• Who is your favorite hero of fiction?
  • Samwise Gamgee, from “The Lord of the Rings.” A humble hobbit becomes one of the most courageous and faithful friends ever.

Thank you Fr. Aric for everything you do for us. We are truly blessed to have you as our chaplain!