Matthew Pierson

Propaedeutic Year (College I)
St. Pius X Seminary, Loras College, Dubuque, IA
St. Francis of Assisi, West Des Moines

My name is Matthew Pierson, and I am from St. Francis of Assisi Parish in West Des Moines. I graduated from Dowling Catholic in 2025.

I first began discerning the priesthood as a freshman in high school after an inspiring visit to The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington DC. After prioritizing this in my prayer life I felt the call begin to grow strong. Soon after, I told my family that I was strongly considering joining seminary after high school. I continued my discernment by attending daily Mass and visiting Eucharistic adoration frequently. Despite hesitations and uncertainties, every time I went into a retreat open minded I felt myself being called back to consider the priesthood.

Finally, as I started my senior year, I decided to apply for the seminary. Since then, I have been filled with peace and anticipation for what God has planned for my future. Please continue to pray for me and all of our seminarians and know of our gratitude for your support.