Deacon Paul Landi is a cradle Catholic from the great state of Texas but his road to formation for priesthood was not a straight one. In this episode, Msgr. Bill Fay talks with Deacon Paul about his prior life of service as a firefighter and paramedic in Houston. How did he become a seminarian for the Diocese of Beaumont? What is it like to trade a life of dedicated service helping people in their time of physical need for a new life of service that will encourage people’s spiritual well-being and relationship with God? How do the two lives intersect? Hear about Deacon Paul’s bumpy journey that led him to where he is today. He also addresses a common question often asked by older discerners for priesthood: Is it me that wants this or is it God that wants this? Tune in and be inspired by Deacon Paul’s perseverance. Hear how he now uses his leadership skills from his previous life as a firefighter to impact the seminarian experience and prepare himself and his formation brothers for priesthood.

Paul began his career as a firefighter and paramedic at 20 years old. He has a 27-year-old son, and two stepdaughters, 33 and 27. He retired from The Bellaire Fire Department (near Houston) as a Captain in June 2022, after 31 years of service. Deacon Paul is completing his final year of formation at the Seminary before his ordination to priesthood in the spring of 2026.