Msgr. James Shea sometimes yearns to return to his childhood farm in South Dakota to engage in the haymaking process. The serene weather provided a picturesque backdrop as he harvested alfalfa and observed the cattle feed accumulating before him.
While there were certain chores he found distasteful, such as picking rocks and shoveling grain, Msgr. James Shea, the current president of the University of Mary in Bismarck, North Dakota, reminisces that his upbringing on the farm was truly remarkable. He is scheduled to speak at the 100th-anniversary celebration of St. Paul-based Catholic Rural Life at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul on May 8. A frequent guest on Relevant Radio’s “Practicing Catholic” show, Msgr. Shea recently conversed with the show’s producer, Kayla Mayer, reflecting on the profound impact of his farm life on his personal journey.
As the eldest of eight siblings, Msgr. Shea attributes the foundation of his calling to the priesthood to his experiences in rural life. He recalls being deeply influenced by the altruism displayed by his parents and the close-knit community, instilling in him the belief that his life was destined for selfless service. This realization served as the catalyst for his vocational journey towards the priesthood.
Reflecting on the essence of rural living, Msgr. Shea emphasizes the importance of relying on God, a core principle that can often be overshadowed in the hustle and bustle of urban existence. He underscores the inherent need for a profound sense of dependence on God, a lesson exemplified through the rhythms of farm life where one’s reliance on divine providence is unmistakable.
While extolling the virtues of rural living, Msgr. Shea highlights that the spiritual benefits are not confined solely to farm dwellers. Urban residents can also seek solace in the tranquility of churches or the serenity of natural settings within city parks. He underscores the significance of finding moments of quiet reflection amidst the urban clamor to reconnect with one’s deeper purpose.
Joining Cardinal Timothy Dolan at the Catholic Rural Life celebration in May, Msgr. Shea anticipates a gathering that honors their shared agricultural roots and spiritual insights. For those interested in attending the celebration or purchasing tickets, further details can be found here.
To catch the latest episode of “Practicing Catholic” on Relevant Radio 1330 AM, airing at 9 p.m. on March 22, with rebroadcasts on March 23 and March 24, listeners can tune in for enriching discussions. The show, a collaborative effort between Relevant Radio and the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, features engaging conversations with Father Boniface Hicks, Peter Yurek, and Andrea Krautkramer from St. Hubert in Chanhassen, advocating for active participation in small group settings within the Catholic community. For those unable to listen live, the interviews are accessible on various streaming platforms, including Spotify for Podcasters.