John Anthony’s path to Mount St. Mary’s Seminary is a testament to the enduring call of faith and the power of personal discernment. Before dedicating himself to theological studies at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary and The Catholic University of America, John Anthony cultivated a strong foundation in business, earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Accounting and Sales from the Catholic University of America. His educational journey within the Catholic system began much earlier, with formative years spent at St. Agnes for elementary and middle school, followed by high school at The Heights. This consistent immersion in Catholic education laid the groundwork for his eventual vocational awakening.
John Anthony Buono
The initial seeds of John Anthony’s seminary aspiration were sown during his high school years. At the age of 17, participating in WorkCamp ignited a spark of discernment regarding his vocation. Although this initial calling seemed to recede as he embarked on his college studies, the idea of seminary persistently resurfaced. Despite attempts to dismiss it, the notion continued to resonate deeply within him. A pivotal shift occurred when John Anthony deepened his devotion to the Holy Eucharist through a commitment to Daily Mass. This practice fostered a profound sense of peace in prayer, leading him to believe that “Our Lord may be moving me towards the seminary.” This growing inner conviction solidified his decision to pursue the path of priesthood.
John Anthony articulates his motivation to become a priest with striking clarity and purpose: “I want to be a priest because I simply want to save souls.” This powerful declaration underscores his profound desire to serve as “an instrument of God’s grace and mercy to others.” For John Anthony, the ultimate objective, particularly as a priest, is unequivocally “to bring souls to Heaven.” This aspiration reflects a selfless commitment to spiritual service and a deep understanding of the priestly role as a conduit of divine grace.
Beyond his academic and spiritual pursuits, John Anthony finds joy and balance in various pastimes. His love for sports, nurtured since childhood through baseball and basketball, continues to be a source of recreation. He enjoys spending time with his father and brothers at the park, engaging in “swings and throws.” As an avid Washington Nationals fan, attending games is a cherished pastime. Furthermore, John Anthony possesses a passion for music, particularly playing the piano and singing. His participation in chorus during high school and an a cappella group in college highlights his artistic talents and provides another avenue for personal expression and fulfillment.
Drawing inspiration from scripture, John Anthony’s favorite quote, “Behold, I make all things new” (Revelation 21:5), encapsulates his hopeful outlook on life and faith. He finds profound meaning in this verse, recognizing it as a powerful reminder of “how Our Lord turns the darkness of our lives into new life, as he did for us on the cross.” This quote resonates deeply with his understanding of redemption and the transformative power of faith.
Among the many saints, Saint John holds a special place in John Anthony’s heart. He admires Saint John for his “deep love and affection not only for Christ, but also for Our Lady.” Imagining Saint John’s unwavering presence at the foot of the cross, holding Mary’s hands, deeply inspires him. John Anthony sees Saint John’s steadfast devotion as “an incredible example of living a spiritual life in Christ,” emulating his loyalty and love in his own spiritual journey.
For young men contemplating seminary, John Anthony offers simple yet profound advice: “find peace in your life, especially through your prayer.” He emphasizes the transformative power of frequent visits to “Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament,” promising that it will bring “peace and joy” and clarity in discerning one’s vocation. He encourages prayerful reflection and reliance on divine guidance, assuring that “if you ask him to help guide your way, you will surely go in the right direction.” Finally, he underscores the importance of staying “close to the Eucharist” as a source of both “peace in your heart” and vocational “clarity.” John Anthony’s journey, grounded in faith, service, and a deep connection to the Eucharist, serves as an inspiring example for those considering a similar path.
