Mateo Pascual 
Birth Date
April 15
Parish Location
The Cathedral of St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception
Year entered the Seminary/Class of
Entered in 2023, Class of 2030
Studying at
Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary
Why did you become a seminarian?
I had never thought of becoming a priest. When I graduated from high school, I was offered my dream job as a software developer where I thought I could have a great career and make a lot of money. At the same time I was not making great decisions in my personal life and I as not at peace with how I was living. I returned to prayer and after spending time with Jesus in adoration, I asked what would bring me peace. I heard the Lord speak to me, “Be my priest.” Although I fought going to seminary for a long time, I found peace by simply saying “yes.”
Before you entered the seminary, what were you doing?
I was a full time computer science major at Illinois Central College while working as a software developer with Caterpillar in East Peoria.
An interesting fact about you:
I was born in Guatemala. I speak three languages, and I still enjoy computer programming.