Hello! My name is Patrick Julian and I am ecstatic to be a FOCUS missionary! After an amazing first semester, at Doane University in Crete, Nebraska with the Bosco Project, God has called me back home to serve at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign! I-L-L! 

The Illinois Team! Beth, me, Katie, Ryan, Jenna, Justin, & Clare!

I grew up in a Catholic family, where faith was present but not central in my life. While attending Loras College, a Catholic school in Dubuque, Iowa, I began to take my faith more seriously. Pursuing a double major in Marketing and Sports Management with a Catholic Studies minor, I also competed on the track and field team for two years.

In my first year at Loras, I joined a FOCUS Bible study, which introduced me to daily Mass, adoration, and the rosary. Despite these experiences, my identity remained tied to being a collegiate athlete. When two consecutive season-ending injuries forced me to step away from running, I felt lost, isolated, and angry with God.

At my lowest point during my junior year, I reluctantly attended the SEEK23 conference, and my life was transformed thanks to the Holy Spirit and a FOCUS missionary who did not give up on me. There, I discovered what it means to be a Catholic man and realized that only an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ could bring true fulfillment. Since then, I’ve sought to see myself as God does, embracing His love and striving to share it with others.

Throughout my college years, a professor imparted a piece of wisdom that has profoundly influenced my perspective: “What you receive as a gift, give as a gift.” This principle has become a cornerstone in my outlook on life. Embracing this mentality, I feel deeply passionate about accompanying students on their spiritual journeys as they cultivate their unique relationships with Jesus Christ, the same way my missionaries at Loras accompanied and believed in me. My prayer is that the Lord will use me as His instrument during my time as a FOCUS missionary to provide support and authentic friendship to students by fostering an environment of trust and openness so they can discover and embrace their spiritual identities, empowering them to live authentically and purposefully in accordance with their faith.

“Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.”

– Mother Teresa

The Lord has placed upon my heart a steadfast calling to accompany and support students in their faith journeys on college campuses. This mission is not just mine; it is a shared endeavor with the Church to proclaim the Kingdom of God and make disciples of all nations. Upon accepting the call to become a FOCUS missionary, I committed to relying on the spiritual and financial support of mission partners to guide me through this journey. I am thrilled not only to embark on this mission but also to share it with you. Your prayers and generosity are invaluable blessings that make this mission possible.

If you are interested in partnering with me to spread the Gospel to college students, I would love to talk with you! It would be an honor to schedule an appointment and share in this mission with you!

Phone: (630) 486-8312

Email: [email protected]