An interview with Father Conrad Schmitt, S.T.

Recently, SOAR! spoke with Father Conrad Schmitt, a priest and Missionary Servant of the Most Holy Trinity.

Father Conrad always knew he wanted to be a priest. He also knew he wanted to be a missionary, and part of a religious community.

“There was a vocation club,” he recalls, “and each month a different religious congregation would speak. As soon as I met the Missionary Servants, I knew that was what I wanted to do.”

Father Conrad entered the novitiate in 1948, made his first profession in 1949 and was ordained a priest in 1955. He spent many years serving in administration within the order, including as Treasurer (1967-73), a member of the General Council (1973-78), and then Superior General (1979-87). He also was stationed at parishes in Alabama, Georgia, and most recently at the Shrine of St. Joseph in Stirling, New Jersey.

“Walking with people and bringing their faith to them is one of my greatest joys in being a priest.” Father Conrad spoke of his 13 years at the Shrine and how being present to the pilgrims that came made a difference to so many. He noted that not everyone was Catholic, but they were grateful to have someone there that would listen to them.

When asked to share a word of wisdom, Father Conrad said, “For us as Catholics, the Eucharist is so important. Jesus is with us, and in us, and walks with us.”

The Missionary Servants of the Most Holy Trinity in Silver Spring, Maryland recently received an emergency grant for a van with a hydraulic lift. The accessible van ensures safe and easy transport for aging religious.