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22 In our Catholic faith, the priesthood is often likened to a marriage, a lifelong covenant between a priest and his bride, the Church. This year, we celebrate the 50th Jubilee of four priests, honoring their dedicated service to the Church over the past five decades. Just as a golden wedding anniversary marks a couple's enduring love and commitment, this milestone reflects these priests' steadfast faith and tireless service. We asked the four jubilarians to reflect on their priesthood over the last half-century. Read their responses and get to know them better! CELEBRATING GOLDEN JUBILEES OF OUR PRIESTS How did you come to discern your vocation to the priesthood? What have the last 50 years of priesthood looked like? Do you have any advice for young men or women discerning a vocation to the priesthood or religious life? 1 I went to St. Joseph Grade School in Fort Collins, and in 8th grade, we all did a voca- tion essay. I think I was the only boy who did not write about the priesthood. Then, I went to col- lege at Notre Dame for pre-den- tistry. During school, they had perpetual adoration, which is where my faith really grew and became personal. After a year at Notre Dame, I went to a Cursillo retreat and then to St. Thomas Seminary in Denver with Father Fox and Monsignor Bernie. 2 They've gone by very fast; I'll tell you that. I'm not one who ever had doubts or was tempted to quit. I've always enjoyed being a priest. My focus from second theology was working with the deaf. Bishop Casey asked if someone was interested, so I started taking sign language classes. I have worked with the deaf commu- nity throughout my priesthood. My second parish was Holy Cross in Thornton, and I stayed for 25 years. My last assignment was St. Bernadette in Lakewood and the deaf moved with me, and that's their home now. 3 I have never doubted and have thoroughly enjoyed these 50 years. It's a full and happy life with lots of wonderful opportunities. My advice would be to keep an open mind. 1 2 3 Father Tom Coyte 22 AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2024 | DENVER CATHOLIC P R I E STLY M I LE STO N E S