“Come and See”: Parishioner Andrew Degele Answers God’s Call

For parishioner Andrew Degele, Holy Infant Catholic Church has always been home. A familiar face to many, Andrew grew up in the parish after moving to Durham in first grade, becoming deeply involved through Sunday school, Youth Ministries, Altar Serving, the Food Justice Garden, and DeSales Service Works. Now, he is answering a call to serve the Church in a new way—as a seminarian for the Diocese of Raleigh.

Andrew’s Catholic faith has shaped the very fabric of his life. “I am reminded of St. Teresa of Avila’s saying: ‘Christ has no body but yours…’ My relationship with Christ through His Church inspires me each day to live authentically and strive to love each person I encounter.” That spirit of service has been a throughline—from retreats and youth ministry at Holy Infant, to campus ministry at UNC Chapel Hill, to a year of volunteer service with the Sisters of Bon Secours.

It was during his first year in college that Andrew began to feel a call to the priesthood—a call that deepened gradually over time through prayer, conversation, and experiences of God’s presence, especially in Eucharistic Adoration. Encouraged by spiritual mentors and bolstered by opportunities to explore religious life, including “Come and See” weekends, Andrew ultimately applied—and was accepted—as a seminarian.

Daily prayer and openness to God have anchored his journey. He draws inspiration from saints like Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, whose joyful faith and commitment to the poor serve as a model for Christian living. “Every day,” Andrew says, “I approach prayer with an openness to receive from God and in gratitude for a new day to love and serve.”

Holy Infant has been a steady presence throughout his discernment, especially in times of transition. “The witness of parishioners—especially those who led my TYM groups—was a great source of inspiration and reflection. They showed me that being a faithful Catholic can be fun and exciting.”

Yet, discernment is not without its challenges. Andrew notes the sacrifices involved—choosing one path means saying no to others. In moments of uncertainty, he leans on prayer, trust in God’s presence, and honest conversations with trusted friends and mentors. He encourages others discerning a vocation not to get stuck in reflection alone: “Act on it! Go on retreats, talk to people living that life. If God continues to place the desire on your heart, keep going.”

Looking ahead, Andrew is excited to accompany others on their spiritual journeys and offer the Sacraments. “I hope to be a witness to Jesus—a witness to hope, joy, and the fullness of life. To serve others by my presence, in prayer, and through the parish community.”

His hopes are rooted in Christ’s invitation to the first disciples in John 1: “Come, and you will see.” That same invitation continues to echo in Andrew’s heart as he takes the next step in his journey.

The Holy Infant community can support Andrew by keeping him in prayer and offering encouragement along the way. “Say hi,” he adds. “I’m happy to share about my experience and to listen and hear from you.”

To young people exploring their own faith journey, Andrew offers this advice: “Anchor your life in prayer and relationship with God. From that, all else flows. Faith is not meant to be lived in isolation but in community.”

Let us continue to pray for Andrew as he follows God’s call with courage, humility, and joy. May his journey inspire us all to listen attentively for the voice of Christ in our own lives—and to respond with trust and love.