Name: The Most Reverend Martin J. Amos
Age: 68 years young
Years ordained: Ordained a priest May 25, 1968; ordained a bishop June 7, 2001
Current assignment: Installed as Bishop of Davenport, Nov. 20, 2006
How did you know you were being called to priesthood?
For as long as I can remember I wanted to be a priest. For many of my classmates (34 of them) there were different times and ways in which God called them, but I feel a little like Jeremiah: “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I dedicated you.” (Jer 1/5)
Aside from your ordination Mass, what was your most memorable Mass?
There have been many. Some involved joyful events and others, like some funerals, remain with me. But one that stands out is being able to con-celebrate with Pope John Paul II in his private chapel at the Vatican. I was in Rome and was invited to join the Bishop of Gallup, N.M., and was with about 30 or so other people at this very special Mass. The Pope talked to each of us after Mass and gave us a rosary.
What is most rewarding about being a priest?
Over the years, it has been the interacting with people. To be invited into families’ and individual people’s lives in times of great happiness, great sorrow and just ordinary life!
What is most challenging about being a priest?
Trying to steer a middle course in faithfulness to the Gospel. The polarization especially in more recent years is difficult.
What is your favorite Scripture passage?
I Kings 19/9f — Elijah’s encounter with God. After all the great events — wind, earthquake, fire — God is found in “a tiny whispering sound.”
What is your hobby?
Carpentry, gardening, walking.
