Name: Father Rich Adam
Age: 51
Years ordained: 21
Current assignment: Cluster parishes of St. Mary’s, Riverside; Holy Trinity, Richmond; St. Joseph’s, Wellman
How did you know you were being called to priesthood?
Growing up as a child, I was used to having priests come to the Adam home. Be it our parish priest, our uncle, or friends my older brother (Father Nick) would bring home from the seminary, we grew up knowing a lot of priests and really seeing them as “ordinary people.” Priests weren’t intimidating or “out there,” but people we felt we could relate to and appreciate. This, of course, made it easier to discern becoming a priest myself.
Aside from your ordination Mass, what was your most memorable Mass?
One particular Mass that stands out was two years ago when my brother Nick and I accompanied a group of people to Rome. On our first day we toured the ancient catacombs outside the city and celebrated Mass down in the catacombs. I think everyone there felt a prevailing spirit as we imagined our ancestors keeping the flames of faith alive, celebrating Mass in those tombs. It was one of those awesome moments of offering the Mass that makes priesthood feel so special.
What is most rewarding about being a priest?
Being welcomed in people’s homes as one of the family. Sharing those special moments in people’s lives such as weddings, baptisms and even funerals.
What is most challenging about being a priest?
Not enough hours in the day.
What is your favorite Scripture passage?
I have many favorite psalms, but one of the most comforting is Psalm 23. I love the story of the boy standing up to recite this psalm before the whole church and forgetting the words. He simply condensed it to “The Lord is my Shepherd….. and that’s all I want!” That about says it all, doesn’t it? I’ve shared this psalm in confessions, hospitals, counseling, and in times of doubt, despair and turmoil. There’s really a sense of comfort with the Lord as our Shepherd and really, that’s what we all want.
What is your hobby?
I enjoy my days off heading back home and helping on the farm. There’s not a better escape than a good book. Playing the piano is a definite therapy, but my little Sheltie, Maggie, is one of my favorite hobbies!
