Eric Baylot

Background

I grew up in Norcross, GA. I lived with my parents and have three older siblings who are all over ten years older than me. I have a plethora of nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, and uncles. We have a really big family!

What are your hobbies and interests?

I love to sing and act. Before joining seminary I was a theatre major at the University of Georgia. I also enjoy reading, especially spiritual writings of the saints and fantasy such as Lord of the Rings.

What is one of your favorite scriptures?

My favorite scripture passage is 2 Cor. 12: 8-10.

Who is your favorite saint and why?

My favorite saint is St. Therese of Lisieux. She has helped me out a lot in my spiritual life. She reminds me that I can serve God through my everyday struggles and sufferings and that I don’t need to do something big and world changing to become a saint.

In a nutshell, what is your vocation story? How did you feel called to the priesthood?

I had a lot of little moments where I felt God was pushing me toward the priesthood. In particular, there were a few times during adoration when I thought about the priesthood and was given a great sense of peace by the Lord. I tried to ignore the call but eventually stopped trying to live the way I wanted, and instead asked God what He wanted of me. He led me here.

What is seminary life like for you?

It can be stressful and busy at times. There are a lot of different areas that you have to work on in seminary. However, it’s also a joy. I’m surrounded by other men who are also trying to answer God’s call. We all support each other and are able to be formed by amazing priests, theologians and philosophers. We make sure to take time to relax and have fun so that we don’t burn ourselves out.

What do you look forward to about being a priest?

I’m most looking forward to hearing confessions. It’s a profound honor and responsibility to be in persona Christi capitis and through Our Lord to be able to absolve people of their sins. Going to confession is always such a blessing and relief for me, and I want to provide that for others.

What advice do you have for other guys thinking about the priesthood?

Don’t discern alone! It’s so important to talk to someone else about it. Go to your pastor or call the vocations director of your diocese. You can gain so much clarity and assurance by talking to someone who has already gone through what you’re grappling with currently.