St. Mary officially welcomes Fr. Jose Gasta as its new parochial vicar. Get to know a little more about him below!
Where Are You From?
I am from Asturias Cebu in the Philippines and am one of eight children. My parents and some of my siblings still live there, and I visit once a year.
When Did You Decide to Become a Priest?
I entered the seminary at 16 years old after a seminarian visited my high school to promote vocations. I was searching for purpose and direction in my life, and I wanted to at least try out the seminary to see if I would like it. If it worked out, great. If not, I was also fine with that.
What Made You Stick with It?
When I was in the seminary, I realized that I enjoyed staying there. The more I learned about the priesthood and religious life, the more it appealed to me. Over the next 12 years, there were many times that I got discouraged and wanted to leave, but I could never imagine myself being out of the seminary and, by the grace of God, I stuck with it and was ordained a priest at age 28.
What Else Appealed to You About Religious Life?
Instead of becoming a diocesan priest, I was drawn to the simplicity of life that comes with being a member of a religious order. That’s why I joined the Congregation of the Rogationist Fathers (Rogationists of the Heart of Jesus). We live the vows of poverty, chastity, obedience, and “rogate” which means praying for an increase of holy vocations in the Church.
As a member of this order, I cannot have my own personal bank account, car, home, or any other material possessions. This simplicity attracted me the most and is the reason I stayed in the seminary. I really enjoyed the communal life with the other members of the order.
Do You Still Practice this Simplicity Now that You’re an Assistant Parish Priest at St. Mary?
Although I am currently living outside my religious community (for work reasons) I still practice my religious life and follow the rules of my order. In fact, my priest’s salary still goes to my order, and they allot a portion to me as an allowance. I also use my weekly day off to visit my confreres in Blue Island.
Why Did You Come to the United States?
I never expected to be here. However, as a member of the Rogationist Fathers, which is a missionary order of priests, I took a vow of obedience to go wherever in the world they might send me. When my order was blessed to oversee St. Donatus parish in Blue Island, I was sent there in September 2022 as an Associate Pastor.
Was It Hard to Move Across the World?
Yes, I was hesitant at first. When I came here, I initially felt isolated. I was confined to one parish for the first time, whereas, in the Philippines, I had always been involved with the seminary and priestly vocations. I also wasn’t used to the cold Chicago weather. Over time, though, I got to know the local community and began to feel more at home. Here at St. Mary, Father Dindo and Father Sam are extremely welcoming and supportive.
What Unique Gift Do You Bring to Your Ministry?
I strive to make myself available for whatever is needed at the parish. For example, when there are emergencies, like Anointings of the Sick, I want to avail myself because that’s what I am here for. I want to be there for the people and be of service. If I am capable of doing something, I always try to say “yes” when asked for help.
Which Ministry Are You Drawn to?
I love being a chaplain to sick people. It’s very fulfilling, and I feel inclined to do this type of ministry here at St. Mary.
What is your favorite Fr. Dindo dish?
Father Dindo is a good cook, and I love everything he cooks. What I’m worried about now is gaining weight in the coming months.
How do you like Fr. Dindo’s painting of you?
This is the first time someone has painted me. I am very excited and grateful. Father Dindo is an artist. He was able to capture my emotions through his painting.
What is your favorite thing about living in Mokena?
I’ve only been here for less than a month and I already love the calmness and peaceful atmosphere here.
How do you like Chicago winters?
Coming from a tropical country that only has wet and dry seasons, my first winter experience was fantastic, and I always look forward to it every year.
The Mokena Marian 