CHARLOTTE — As a young man, seminarian James Tweed dreamed of discovering the wonders of history and studying the life of the world’s oceans. He wanted to be an archaeologist and marine biologist while he was in high school.
As the years passed, his talents led him to studies in molecular biology, chemistry and math. He worked at the Max Planck Neuroscience Institute and considered studying medicine at the University of Miami.
Yet he also felt called to something more. He felt a call to the priesthood in high school but pursued other interests.
Then, while attending a Steubenville retreat in Atlanta, there was a call for men considering the priesthood to stand up. Suddenly, everything became clear.
Those other paths fell away and he embarked on the path of the Gospel.
Tweed is in his final year of theology studies at The Athenaeum in Ohio and will be ordained to the transitional diaconate Dec. 6 at Immaculate Conception Church in Hendersonville.
His background has come in handy during his time at seminary. This summer, he served as an interfaith chaplain at Atrium Health’s Trauma Center at Carolinas Medical Center.
Hometown/birthplace: Born in Hendersonville, grew up in Brevard.
Home parish: Sacred Heart, Brevard
Age: 30
Family: Father Michael, mother Mary and five siblings
Educational background: Bachelor’s in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology from Palm Beach Atlantic University. Studied/worked at Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience. Two years of philosophy at St. Joseph College Seminary, Mount Holly. Pursuing master’s degrees in divinity and theology at the Athenaeum in Ohio.
Hobbies: Working out, writing poetry and prose, walking in the woods, oil painting and hosting friends.
Favorite saint: The Blessed Virgin Mary. “When I’m with her I feel very close to Jesus.”
Favorite Bible verse: “For she is a breath of the power of God, and a pure emanation of the glory of the Almighty; therefore nothing defiled gains entrance into her. For she is a reflection of eternal light, a spotless mirror of the working of God, and an image of his goodness” (Wisdom 7:25–26).
Favorite prayer: Psalm 45, a hymn of mystical love—a song of the soul’s longing for divine union.
CNH: What was your journey of discernment like?
Tweed: God planted the seed of my vocation from my earliest years. It grew quietly, nurtured by grace, the sacraments, and the loving care of my family.
There were moments when I sensed I was set apart for something special, though I couldn’t yet see what that would be. As a teenager, while dating, I noticed that the closer I became to someone, the more my heart seemed to drift from the Lord. This was not out of pain or confusion, but a clear inner awareness that my heart had been made entirely for Him. God was showing me that He desired my undivided love, and that only in Him could my heart find its true home. Then came the moment during the Steubenville retreat in Atlanta. I was completely unprepared - the thought had never even entered my mind. I did not want this path, and I could not have imagined choosing it myself. Yet, in that moment, I felt an irresistible movement within my heart. It was as if the Lord spoke my name in a way that embraced my whole being, drawing me with a love both commanding and tender. Almost before I knew it, I stood. In that moment, I understood with clarity and joy that my life belonged to Him.
CNH: What has your experience been like so far in the seminary?
Tweed: Wonderfully freeing. What might appear as restrictions have become the very framework of my growth, allowing me to advance in the intellectual, moral, and spiritual life more fully than I could elsewhere. The greatest joy has been the lifelong bonds formed with my brothers, discerning the Lord’s call alongside me. These friendships, rooted in prayer, shared struggles and mutual encouragement are a constant source of joy and strength.
CNH: Any advice for men considering the priesthood?
Tweed: The joy, peace, and purpose that come from embracing God’s plan for your life far surpass any earthly attachment. Do not be afraid to trust Him, even when the path is unclear. God’s call is a gift.
CNH: Any Advice for families/friends of those considering vocations?
Tweed: Pray and listen. Encourage your loved one to spend time in prayer and reflection. Create a supportive space where they can share their thoughts and struggles without pressure.
— Christina Lee Knauss
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