Matt Menzel Interviews Father Justin Huang on the Joys and Sacrifices of Joining the Priesthood

Описание: In this special episode, guest host Matt Menzel of Westside Church in Vancouver sits down with his friend Father Justin Huang, pastor of St. Anthony of Padua. Their conversation is a beautiful picture of unity in Christ—even with theological differences—as they explore calling, confession, and spiritual practices that sustain life in ministry.

Father Justin shares how a powerful encounter with Jesus through confession led him to the priesthood, and how years of discernment shaped his obedience and desire to serve the Church. Together, they reflect on the value of corporate confession, the role of solitude and sabbaticals, and how to remain rooted in abiding with God rather than simply working for Him.

🎧 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
0:00 - Welcome & Introduction
1:36 - How Matt and Father Justin became friends
4:28 - Father Justin’s story of faith and call to the priesthood
9:43 - Encountering God through confession
15:06 - Wrestling with calling and desires
20:33 - Unity in Christ across theological lines
26:51 - What evangelicals can learn from Catholic practices
32:14 - The value of corporate confession in the Church
38:47 - Abiding with God vs. working for God
45:29 - Rhythms of sabbatical, silence, and solitude
52:36 - Encouragement for pastors and leaders

🔑 Key Takeaways:
Why confession is central to experiencing God’s mercy
The importance of unity and friendship across church traditions
How sabbaticals and silence help us minister from a place of abiding
What it looks like to lead from spiritual depth, not just duty

🎙 About Father Justin Huang
Father Justin Huang grew up in Richmond, British Columbia, the third of three brothers. Though not raised Catholic, he started going to Mass when he was 13. After a powerful experience of God’s love through the Sacrament of Reconciliation, he felt called to the Holy priesthood at the age of 16. He is the appointed pastor of St. Anthony of Padua, Vancouver.

🔗 Links & Resources:
🌎 Website: https://www.thepastorate.ca
📸 Instagram: / thepastorate.ca
🎙️ Podcast: https://www.thepastorate.ca/podcast
🎁 Support The Pastorate: https://www.thepastorate.ca/give
📍Learn more about St. Anthony of Padua Parish: https://stanthonyvan.com

👍 Like & Subscribe
Share this episode with someone you know who’s passionate about building bridges in the Church and leading from a place of spiritual depth.