Fr. Natnael Antonio, SJ

Entered Society of Jesus: 2006

As a Jesuit: Father Antonio worked with Capuchin Catholic TV as a member of the Eastern Africa Province; taught at a variety of schools, including Loyola High School in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; and was active in youth ministering and coached high school basketball.

Assignment Following Ordination: Father Antonio will begin an MFA program at Loyola Marymount University’s School of Cinema and Television.

Call to the Priesthood: I consider myself a born-again Jesuit—not in the sense of beginning for the first time, but in the grace of beginning again, with deeper clarity and renewed joy. My journey with the Society of Jesus and my call to the priesthood began in 2006, a path filled with both light and shadow, detours and discovery. After years of formation, I stepped away from the Society for a time—four years of deep reflection and discernment. But even in that space of uncertainty, God never let go of me. In 2020 I returned—not as the same man who once joined, but as one transformed by time, grace and the silent persistence of God’s call. I came back to the Society with renewed vigor, with my heart open and my spirit willing. The seed of priesthood was planted in me at the tender age of eight. It took three decades for that seed to reach its full flowering. But I’ve come to know—deeply and personally—that God’s timing is perfect. What he begins, he will bring to completion. So, to anyone still waiting for their heart’s desire to be fulfilled, I offer this: God does not delay without purpose. He ripens our calling in his own season. Trust him. He is faithful.

Though my priesthood is a gift to the Church and the people I serve, I carry within me a deep well of gratitude for all those who helped shape me into the man and minister I am today. My family, who believed in me. My friends, who stood by me. My students, who inspired me. My companions in the Society of Jesus, especially the Midwest Jesuits, who welcomed me with open arms and gave me a home away from home. I owe special thanks to Fr. Joseph Afulo Oduor, SJ, whose faithful companionship during my years outside the Society helped me rediscover the quiet fire of my vocation. His presence reminded me that the road back is always open when love is patient and God is near. Today, I walk forward in the joy of priesthood, loving God and humbly serving his people. I pray with gratitude for all who have been part of this journey. And I ask humbly: Please keep me in your prayers, as I continue mine for you. May we all find our calling, in God’s time, and walk it with courage.

Large photo by: Steve Donisch