John Paul Shanahan
Pastoral YearMount Saint Mary's Seminary
Saint John Paul II Seminary
Franklin County High School
AMDG
“Do whatever he tells you.” (John 2: 5)
Hi there! My name is John Paul Shanahan (Jack) a seminarian for the Diocese of Richmond. I was born in New Brunswick, New Jersey, but was raised most of my life in Rocky Mount, Virginia. Growing up in a large Catholic Irish family of 8 was a blast! I spent my early schooling at Roanoke Catholic School before transferring in 4th grade to public school. While in high school I enjoyed playing sports such as football, soccer, cross-country, and frisbee.
My fascination for the faith and the gift of the priesthood started in 1st grade. When my teacher at Roanoke Catholic asked us to write who we wanted to be when we grew up, I said I wanted to be a priest!
Along with altar serving, pilgrimages to New York City, Baltimore, and Louisville with my parish, the summer diocesan Quo Vadis discernment camp, the inspiration of my pastor, and a devotion to the saints helped me to discern my vocation and grow in beloved discipleship.
Should it be God’s desire for me, I will be ordained a priest for Holy Mother Church in 2027. Pray for me!
