Teacher Feature: Fr. Jon Polce, S.J.
Chaplain, chef, UCONN basketball connoisseur, and priest, Fr. Polce, S.J. is a man of many tastes and talents.
The Blue Jay recently had the opportunity to interview Fr. Jon Polce, S.J., the chaplain of Jesuit High School. Known for his reflective examens and interest in the University of Connecticut basketball program, the Yankee transplant tells all about his time at Jesuit and life before entering the Society of Jesus:
Q: Can you tell us about your life before entering the Society of Jesus?
A: I was studying at Boston College to get an advanced degree is Sacred Scripture. I got my S.T.L. in Scripture while at Boston College. In 2022, I was ordained and then sent to be the Chaplain here at Jesuit.
Q: Looking back on these past two years, what has stuck out to you in your time at Jesuit?
A: It’s been a delight, especially with the campus ministry and service team. I work with a team that constantly makes me better, inspires me, laughs a lot, is super talented, and loves God. I couldn’t of asked to be on a better team. I also work with Mr. Peter Flores…
Q: What brought you here to Carrollton and Banks?
A: Holy Obedience. Jesuits get sent where their provincial and superior asks of them. God works through our superiors to guide our missions. I’m grateful for the time l’ve had here.
“It’s great to be back in Mission Drive Season. It’s a blessing to see the excitement and generosity of the campus these days. It’s also a delight, during Lent, to pray in a special way.
I hope that the students see in their acts of generosity, sacrifice, and love, a living out the Gospel command to be with our brothers and sisters in charity all over the world. I hope we become a holier campus during the drive.”
Q: You’ve taken a big part in campus ministry as of late, how has that been?
A: It’s great to be back in Mission Drive Season. It’s a blessing to see the excitement and generosity of the campus these days. It’s also a delight, during Lent, to pray alongside my colleagues in a special way. I’m grateful I didn’t give up sweets this year cause Girl Scout Cookies are everywhere!
Q: What are your hopes for the Mission Drive this year?
A: I hope to make our goal. I hope that the students see in their acts of generosity, sacrifice, and love, a living out the Gospel command to be with our brothers and sisters in charity all over the world. I hope we become a holier campus during the drive.
Q: What is it like living on campus?
A: The commute is great. I have more water fountains at my house than anyone reading this, I’m sure.
Q: And finally, If you had to draft two other Jesuit faculty members to join you on a 3-on-3 basketball team, who would you pick?
A: “Jonathan Hernandez and Jeremy Reuther. If I could get three picks, I’d pick Coach Templet (but don’t tell him), then I’d coach the team.
Fr. Polce is a man of many talents with an uncanny ability to be both spiritual enriching (and absolutely hilarious - just check out his segment on Ten Minute Break called “Polce’s Puns”). The Blue Jay would like to thank Fr. Polce for his time and patience. Please consider fulfilling Fr. Polce’s hopes by donating to this year’s Mission Drive in order to help the people of Kyrgyzstan.
For more information on this year’s Mission Drive click here: Mission Drive 2024