b'PHOTO: ROBIN JERSTADA tentative journey begins diverged for a few years. Father Brandon accepted Praying at a Day of the DeadSelf-described as reluctant discerners to religious life, campus ministry assignments at University of Dayton, memorial at Holy Rosary Parisheach eventually signed up as a contact, a preliminary and Father Mike headed to the classroom at Mother in San Antonio, Father BrandonPaluch, SM, says funerals step in Marianist formation, with a Marianist community Seton Academy in Baltimore. In 2016, both returned account for a significant part ofwhere deeper connections began to take root. Father to Los Angeles for philosophy studies and then went his ministry due to the pandemic.Brandon puts it this way: Over time, I realized how to Rome, becoming part of the international Seminariomuch I loved the brothers and admired their selflessness. Chaminade community, which is co-located with theThen came further stages of discernmentthe Societys General Administration community.first year of aspirancy followed by two years at the Living there was a blessing, Father Mike says.novitiateculminating when they professed first I got to know so many people I would not otherwisevows as Marianists in 2012. Thats when their paths have encountered. Father Brandon agrees: Livingmarianist.com/donate 19'