As summer approaches, most seniors are getting ready for college and life after graduation. However, one Cotter senior has a different game plan.

Tim Welch will be attending Immaculate Heart of Mary (IHM) Seminary at St. Mary’s University next fall. After a long application process and a lot of time spent in prayer, Welch is looking forward for the experience and to grow closer to God.

Ask any senior what they thought about applying for colleges and they’ll more often than not tell you that the process is confusing, tedious, and stressful. Ask Tim Welch and you’ll get a different answer.

The process for applying to the seminary requires much more time and work than a traditional college application. It all begins with a meeting with Father Will Thompson, the Vocations director. From there, an all day psychological evaluation is performed.

You may hear some seniors complain about having to write an essay for their college applications. These essays tend to be very short, one to two pages at the most. However, as part of the application process for the seminary, Tim had to write an autobiography about his life.

The decision to apply for the seminary was not an easy one for Welch. In fact, it took a lot of time and a lot of prayer to reach his decision.

“During the summer I spend a lot of days after work going to daily mass” said Welch, “I kept praying and asking the Lord what I was called to do and what he wanted me to do.”

Tim asked, and thus, he received.

With the support of his friends and family, Tim’s decision regarding his future seemed crystal clear.

“I am not surprised that he is joining the seminary,” said Cotter religion teacher, Mr. McGlaun, “He has many of the gifts that will make him a good priest, if he discerns that”.

Tim explains watching his grandfather, Deacon Welch at his ordination and immediately feeling inspired.

Ask any teacher or senior about Tim and more often than not, they’ll be able to tell you what a faithful and devoted follower of Jesus he is.

“Tim has always had a passion for the church,” stated band director, Mr. Muerer. “[Tim] has been proud of his beliefs for as long as I’ve known him”.

Mother Angelica once said, “We are all called to be great saints, don’t miss the opportunity”. This quote is one that inspires Tim and always sticks with him.

With that being said, it’s safe to say that Tim is not going to miss this opportunity.