Former journalist and youth minister becomes newest seminarian for the Diocese of Saginaw

In 2007, Andy Cipolla graduated with a degree in journalism from Eastern Michigan University.

Shortly afterwards, Cipolla teamed up with two friends who were starting their own news website called the Ypsilanti Citizen. 

Years after sharing Ypsilanti news through his website, Cipolla recently delivered some news of his own to family and friends. He is the newest seminarian in formation for the Diocese of Saginaw. He will attend St. Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology in St. Meinrad, Indiana.

photo of andy cipolla along with fellow journlists
Andy Cipolla (middle) poses for a promotional photo for the Ypsilanti Citizen (circa 2007)

“I’m looking forward to community life at St. Meinrad- having the Eucharist down the hall from me, growing in holiness, going to class and learning,” said Cipolla.

God-willing, if Cipolla is ordained a priest, he will fulfill a clear desire he’s had since an experience with the Lord while praying at Ridge Cemetery in Gladwin in 2015. 

“I was visiting the graves of my grandparents and praying before a statue of the Holy Family when I realized in an unprecedented way that I wanted to be a priest,” said Cipolla.

For the last five years, Cipolla has served as a youth minister at St. Anastasia Parish in Troy, Mich. Before then, his career was multifaceted and included working as a Wilderness Guide in New Mexico. He also worked as a coffee shop manager, an accountant for an industrial company and other part time work. 

“Even though I was good at my work, I didn’t find it fulfilling,” said Cipolla. I feel a deep desire to bring the Sacraments to people. I see myself serving the family as a priest as opposed to being a father.”

photo of andy cipolla teaching high school students during a retreat
Andy Cipolla teaches high school students during a retreat

 

photo of andy cipolla as wilderness guide
Andy Cipolla (left), poses for a photo with his father and brother during his time as a wilderness guide

Cipolla joins five other seminarians of the Diocese of Saginaw. They include:

Matthew Gembrowski, 3rd Theology, Mundelein Seminary, Mundelein, Ill.

Jacob Hugo, 2nd Theology, Mundelein Seminary, Mundelein, Ill.

Daniel Christe, Pre-theology, Sacred Heart Seminary, Hales Corners, Wis.

Joshua High, Pre-theology, Sacred Heart Major Seminary, Detroit, Mich.

Charles Warner, Pre-theology, Sacred Heart Major Seminary, Detroit, Mich.  

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