Introducing Fr. Gregory...

My name is Fr Gregory (Grzegorz) Ogorzalek. I was born in Zamosc (Poland) on March 11, 1982, and raised in the small town of Turobin in the southeast. I have a younger sister and brother. They are both married. My parents are farmers, and I know what it means to work hard from an early age. Maybe this is also why I love nature so much.

During my high school years, I was part of a youth ministry in my parish. During one of the youth retreats, I had moments that I like to call: awakening. From then, my faith became alive. So, after some time, I began to discern a vocation to the priesthood.

I have always seen myself as someone who could work with youth and students.

After graduating high school, I applied to the Metropolitan Seminary of Lublin. My application was accepted, and the process of further discerning has continued. After six years of formation, full of ups and downs, I became a priest on May 26, 2007. I was appointed to my first parish as an associate in Krasnik. After almost four years, I was transferred and worked in the diocesan youth ministry in Lublin. I went with a group of young people to World Youth Day in Spain and Brazil during this time. It was also a fantastic time of creative work with students. I also began work on doctoral studies in the Theology of Spirituality at the Catholic University of Lublin. I defended my dissertation after four years. My doctoral thesis was titled: "The spirituality of encounter in life and legacy of Fr Henri Nouwen."

I have also worked as an associate for one year in the Cathedral church in Lublin.

After eight years of priesthood, my bishop asked if I could work as a spiritual director in the seminary. Aware of the significant responsibility, I began a six-year journey with young men who were discerning a vocation to the priesthood. I was happy to accompany these guys during their time of formation.

I spent my summer break in England and USA while working in the seminary. I was visiting my friends and learning how the Church does its work in these countries. I had a very positive experience. I started thinking and discerning that maybe someday I could work in English speaking country. Long story short, my bishop let me go to work in Canada, and I arrived here on August 18, 2021. I'm grateful to Bishop Crosby that I can serve in the Diocese of Hamilton.

I love meeting friends, travelling, reading good books, photography, and making videos. I also like watching movies and discussing them. My favourite sports activity: are running, hiking, and swimming.

I enjoy my time in Canada and look forward to getting to know you and serving you.