On Becoming a Redemptorist

by Steve Urban

After nine years of formations, I will be ordained to the priesthood on April 18. I am grateful for the support and prayers that so many have offered over the years, and ask for your continued prayers as I begin my priestly ministry. I chose the Redemptorists because of how down-to-earth and relatable they were. My time with the Redemptorists has only confirmed how central being relatable is to the mission. Coming into people’s homes and lives is a gift that Redemptorists do well, and I pray I can continue that tradition, especially to the poor and the abandoned.

I was born in 1988 in Salina, KS, where my parents and younger brother still live. Both of my parents are now retired, and my brother is a civil engineer for the City of Salina. I attended Kansas State University and earned a Master of Accountancy in 2012, after which I spent five years working as a tax accountant for a large public accounting firm.

My accounting career took me to Kansas City where I met the Redemptorists. I was first captivated by Fr. Denis Ryan’s preaching, especially his ability to draw on his practical life experience before the priesthood. As a young professional, his approach helped me see how the Gospel spoke directly to my life. Later, Fr. Gary Ziuraitis, C.Ss.R., and Fr. Quy Duong, C.Ss.R., were assigned to Kansas City and gave me the support I needed to make the difficult decision to enter the seminary.

As a priest, I look forward to continuing to meet people where they are and to journey with them. For example, my time in Minneapolis was challenging for many parishioners who could not leave their homes due to the presence of ICE agents. For nearly two months, I went into people’s homes to deliver food and hold short communion services. It was difficult to experience the financial and emotional toll these circumstances placed them in, yet it was also a privilege to sit with them in their living rooms and talk.

I enjoy life in a parish, especially a parish as big and diverse as St. Alphonsus in Brooklyn Center, MN. At the same time, I remain open to other ministries. I am currently shadowing Fr. Rob Ruhnke and his marriage preparation program, “For Better and For Ever.” I also feel called somehow to the marriage help program, “Retrouvaille.” I am excited to see how God will use me!

Rev. Steve’s Famous Strawberry Pretzel Salad Recipe

• 2 cups crushed pretzels
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 8 ounces whipped topping (or 2 cups freshly whipped cream)

• 1 package (6 ounces) strawberry gelatin
• 2 cups boiling water
• 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries (or frozen strawberries, thawed and drained)

1. Prepare the crust.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   In a bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until evenly coated.
2. Bake the crust.
   Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
   Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and allow it to cool completely.
3. Make the cream layer.
   Beat the softened cream cheese with the sugar until smooth.
   Fold in the whipped topping until well combined.
4. Spread the cream layer.
   Carefully spread the mixture over the cooled pretzel crust, sealing it completely to the edges of the dish. This helps prevent the gelatin from soaking into the crust.
   Refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
5. Prepare the strawberry topping.
   Dissolve the strawberry gelatin in the boiling water and stir until fully dissolved.
   Let the mixture cool to room temperature but not set. Stir in the sliced strawberries.
6. Assemble the dessert.
   Gently pour the strawberry mixture over the chilled cream layer.
7. Chill.
   Refrigerate for 3–4 hours, or until the gelatin is fully set.
8. Serve.
   Cut into squares and serve chilled.