Father Sebastian Aristizabal shares a few thoughts on his journey to priesthood

He calls it his first love – the priesthood. From the time he began praying the rosary with his grandmother, Father Sebastian Aristizabal knew he wanted to dedicate his life to the service of God.

 The Diocese of Buffalo’s newest priest grew up in Colombia, the son of a lawyer and a coffee farmer. He attended Catholic school and spent a few years in seminary, before entering the University of Colombia. He joined the Capuchin Friars in Colombia, where he cared for drug addicted teens in a youth home. His valuable work earned him a promotion to administration. That’s where he realized he missed the hands-on ministry.

“He felt like, ‘I became a Franciscan friar because I wanted to be with the poor, not to sit in an office behind a desk,’” said Father David Baker, director of Vocations for the Diocese of Buffalo.

After leaving the Franciscans, Father Aristizabal inquired about being a diocesan priest in Colombia, but at 32, was considered too old to begin studies. While visiting his brother in Buffalo, he asked if he could enter the formation program here.

The diocese said, “Absolutely.” 

His studies took him first to Christ the King Seminary in East Aurora and then St. Mary’s Seminary and University in Baltimore.

“So, he’s had a long road and he’s worked very hard, and he’s ready to be ordained. He’s very excited,” said Father Baker.

Father Baker, who has known Father Aristizabal for four years, describes him as joyful and sociable. He’s also an avid cyclist and amateur painter, following Pablo Picasso’s cubist stylings.

“He’s a real sociable guy; likes to laugh. We hear that from all the parishes where he’s been for a summer assignment. They like to have him over for dinner. He’s great company,” said Father Baker.

 Father Aristizabal, whose first language is Spanish, took some time to answer questions for WNYCatholic.org. 

How did you receive the call to the priesthood?

For me, the call to the priesthood is a divine invitation I felt within to dedicate myself to the service of God and the Church through the ministry of the priesthood. This call has manifested in various ways throughout my life: through personal experiences, especially within my family, constant prayer, life discernment, and the inspiration of many other priests who have influenced my journey. In my heart, I felt a response of faith and a commitment to follow Christ, live according to His teachings, and serve the community with love, dedication and humility.

To me, the priesthood is not just a personal vocation but also a mission to serve and guide others spiritually. I feel called to administer the sacraments, preach the Gospel, and be a living sign of God’s presence in the world. It is a path that requires preparation, formation, and a continuous surrender to God’s will, which I embrace with joy and gratitude.

Why did you come to Buffalo?

 I decided to come to Buffalo, NY because my brother and his family have lived here for the past 16 years. He is my only brother, and it is very important for me to be close to him and my nieces and nephews. A significant part of the life of a priest involves having a close family, and I wanted to ensure I could be present for them in both everyday moments and important occasions. Living near my family provides me with the support and connection that I consider essential for my ministry and my personal well-being.

Describe your experience in seminary?

 My experiences in the seminary have been some of the best of my life. From the age of 15, when I entered the High School Seminary, I had the opportunity to form lasting friendships with people who remain my closest friends to this day. This initial stage of my formation provided me with a solid foundation in faith and a supportive community that has been fundamental throughout my vocational journey.

At Christ The King Seminary (formerly in East Aurora), where I began my theological studies, I found a very fraternal environment. The seminary community offered me an enriching experience both academically and spiritually. The classes were intense and challenging, but always took place in a context of mutual support and respect. Additionally, extracurricular activities and communal prayer further strengthened our group cohesion.

 The transition to St. Mary’s Seminary (in Baltimore) was not easy, particularly because it occurred during the Covid-19 pandemic, a challenging time for everyone. Adapting to a new academic and social environment under pandemic restrictions added a layer of complexity to my formation. However, this experience also taught me the importance of resilience and adaptability in the priestly ministry.

 Despite the difficulties, the last years of my priestly formation at St. Mary’s Seminary were marked by strong camaraderie with my peers. Daily living, joint study, and pastoral practices brought us closer together. I also experienced significant growth in academic, human, spiritual and pastoral terms, which I consider essential for our ministry.

 These experiences not only prepared me intellectually but also helped me develop greater empathy, understanding and pastoral skills. I am grateful for the journey and for all those who have accompanied me along the way, and I look forward with enthusiasm to serving the Buffalo community with everything I have learned.

 Was it difficult to adjust to the American way of life?

 Adapting to the American way of life has been a significant challenge. Adjusting to a new language and a different culture is not an easy task. It is a constant effort that I undertake daily, striving to understand and communicate effectively in English, as well as to integrate into the cultural and social life of the United States.

 However, this process of adaptation has also been an opportunity to grow and learn. Through daily interactions with people, I have learned a great deal about American customs and values. I have realized the importance of openness and flexibility to connect with the community I serve.

 Despite the challenges, there is a language that transcends all cultural and linguistic barriers: the language of the Gospel. My main goal is to communicate this universal message of love, hope and faith. By focusing on the Gospel, I find a common ground that allows me to reach people and serve them better. This spiritual language guides and strengthens me in my mission, helping me overcome barriers and find a sense of belonging in any community.

 Adapting has been a journey full of challenges but also of rewards, as each day allows me to deepen my vocation and my commitment to bringing the Gospel to everyone, regardless of cultural differences.

 What has it been like serving your diaconal year in The Lord’s Vineyard Family of Parishes in Dunkirk/Fredonia?

 Serving as a deacon in Dunkirk and Fredonia, especially in the family of parishes of The Lord’s Vineyard, has been a deeply rewarding and emotional experience. During this time, I have felt immense joy being part of such a vibrant and welcoming community. It is also the first time I have had the opportunity to serve in a Hispanic community, and it has been a transformative experience.

 Every day, as I assist at the altar and participate in the celebration of the Eucharist, I have felt a special connection with the community. Seeing the devotion and faith of the people has been a constant source of inspiration and strength for me. I have been able to accompany families in their moments of joy and in their challenges, sharing with them the hope and comfort of the Gospel. Additionally, I have served in various diaconal ministries. Each act of service has been an opportunity to grow in my own faith and deepen my commitment to my vocation.

 What has touched me the most is the sense of community and mutual support I have found here. The relationships I have formed with the parishioners and the pastoral team have been truly significant. They have taught me the value of unity and the importance of walking together in faith.

 The warmth and love of the Hispanic community have made me feel at home, reminding me every day why I chose this path. Serving here has not only been an opportunity for ministry but also a personal and spiritual growth experience that I will always treasure.

 What motivates you as a Catholic and as a person?

 As a Catholic and as a person, I am deeply motivated by my faith in God and the call to live according to the Gospel. Each day, I find strength and direction in prayer, the Eucharist, and the Word of God. The desire to follow Christ, imitating His love and compassion, drives me to serve others with all my heart. The joy of seeing someone smile, the gratitude in the eyes of a person who has received help, are moments that fill me with energy and purpose. I am inspired by the continuous pursuit of personal and spiritual growth, and the connection with my faith community. Feeling the love, support and fraternity of those who share my beliefs gives me hope and determination to continue on my vocational path. These motivations guide and strengthen me, reminding me every day of the transformative power of love and compassion.