“Stop trying to figure it all out and trust… Just take that courageous step to not be afraid and see what’s on the other side of your yes.” Fr. Mark Livingston joins Men of the Hearts podcast hosts Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. Drew Mabee to talk about his unique vocation story. Raised Catholic but distant from the faith for much of his young adult life, Fr. Mark’s journey to the priesthood was sparked by a 30-day prayer commitment and included a life-changing pilgrimage to Medjugorje, quiet hours in adoration, and encouragement from his pastor.

(0:02) Hosts Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. Drew Mabee welcome listeners and introduce their guest, Fr. Mark Livingston. Fr. Mark begins the episode discussing the unique beauty and history of his parish buildings, built with stones collected by farming families. He reflects on the culture of small-town ministry, from parish festivals and county fairs to kids showing off their lambs and pigs.

(11:50) Fr. Mark looks back on his life growing up Catholic in Detroit, before the divorce of his parents in his teen years led him to drift from the Church. Despite academic and professional success, he felt spiritually empty and far from God. He made a 30-day prayer commitment with a glow-in-the-dark rosary and experienced a powerful encounter with the Holy Spirit that sparked his return to the Church.

(17:00) While on a pilgrimage to Medjugorje, Fr. Mark had a dream that led to a profound experience of healing while praying the Stations of the Cross.

(27:45) Jesus in the Eucharist became a place of refuge, healing, and growing intimacy for Fr. Mark. His pastor at the time, Fr. Bob McCabe, had “a huge, huge influence” on his discernment for the future, opening his eyes to the possibility of a later vocation to the priesthood. He spent time discerning with various religious communities before realizing that he was being called to the diocesan priesthood.

(36:15) Fr. Mark reflects on two serious relationships from young adulthood, including one that lasted nearly eight years. He talks about the challenge of ending those relationships when he sensed that God was calling him to a different vocation.

(44:20) Fr. Mark shares about his time at Sacred Heart Major Seminary, touching on some of the challenges he faced being older than many men who pursue the priesthood. He advises those entering seminary to do so with a humble heart, willing to be stretched and shaped by God.

(49:15) The episode concludes with reflections on healing, formation, and the need to bring one's whole self before Jesus in discernment. Fr. Mark encourages listeners—especially older men—to trust that God can use every part of their story to build something beautiful. He then closes the episode with a prayer.