Dan Angel
St. John Vianney College Seminary (Junior Year)
Home Parish: St. Raphael, St. Petersburg

Dan is a native of St. Petersburg and a graduate of Holy Family Catholic School. In 2006, he graduated from Northeast High School as the salutatorian. He attended the University of Central Florida where he was majoring in marine biology. In addition to working with Shamu at Sea World, Dan enjoys reading, swimming, running, and volunteering. He was very active in the Catholic Campus Ministry program at UCF which helped him to discern a call to the priesthood. Realizing he could not outswim God, Dan will transfer into St. John Vianney College Seminary in August. His older brother, Bob, is also a seminarian for the Diocese of St. Petersburg.

Do your family and friends think it is a good idea that you’re becoming a priest? My family and friends have all been very supportive of my decision to enter the seminary to one day, God willing, become a priest. I have only received positive reactions from everyone I've told, and this has really encouraged me in staying firm to the path God has called me to.

What’s the biggest sacrifice you will be making to go to the seminary?The biggest sacrifice will be leaving all of my friends that I have made up at UCF who have helped me along my journey in faith. I know, however, that they will continue to be there for me and be a source of strength along my way. Also, leaving my job at SeaWorld will be extremely hard. I have experienced and learned so much from my time there and have bonded with some amazing people and whales as well!

Are you nervous at all about starting the seminary in August?  Well, I would be lying if I said that I was 100% confident and calm embarking on this new journey. The Lord has blessed me, however, and has brought me so much peace and resilience in this decision that I am definitely more excited than nervous about starting the seminary.

What’s the best movie you’ve seen lately?  The best movie that I have seen lately would definitely be Sherlock Holmes. It has it all...action, suspense, intrigue, and the relationship between Holmes and Watson makes the movie.

Who is your favorite singer or music group?I have many artists that I am fond of, but I would say that Jack Johnson would be one of my favorites. His music relaxes the soul and brings me back to the sea every time I need it.

Who helped you decide to study for the priesthood?I believe the seed was planted by Fr. Tim Sherwood way back in the day, and then it has been cultivated by many priests and friends willing to challenge me along my way. Also, talking to some seminarians and close friends I knew helped in making the final decision once the call seemed ever present in my heart.

What are you looking forward to most at the seminary?At the seminary I am most looking forward to the brotherhood I have seem it to provide. I am also looking forward to expanding my knowledge of our faith and growing in holiness to better myself and be led closer to God.