Matthew R. Holland, SJ, 34, is a native of Seattle. He attended Bellarmine Preparatory School in Tacoma, Washington, where he first encountered the Society. Through his relationships with Jesuits during high school, Holland began thinking about a vocation and was considering entering the Society after high school, but the Jesuits encouraged him to attend college first. He went to Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington, earning a bachelor’s degree in history and a teaching certificate in 2004. At Gonzaga, he continued to discern his vocation to the Jesuits and became a novice after graduation. As a novice, Holland spent a semester teaching at Gonzaga Preparatory School in Spokane. In 2006, he headed to Saint Louis University, where he received a master’s degree in history. Missioned next to his alma mater, Bellarmine Prep, Holland taught social studies and religion for three years, as well as coached freshman football and track and field. Going back to his high school as a Jesuit was a huge gift for Holland, and it gave him the opportunity to teach both his younger brother and sister. Next, he spent six months in Guatemala learning Spanish before going to the Pontificia Universidad Javeriana in Bogotá, Colombia, for theology studies. Holland was thankful for the opportunity to study abroad, where he experienced the international Society and met the welcoming people of Colombia. He received a Bachelor of Sacred Theology in December 2015 and then returned to the United States to continue studies at the Jesuit School of Theology of Santa Clara University in Berkeley, California. He also served as a deacon at St. Ambrose Catholic Church in Berkeley, helping with the Spanish liturgies. After ordination, Holland will work in parish ministry. His first Masses as a priest will be celebrated with his brother Jesuits at St. Aloysius Gonzaga Parish in Spokane and, later, at his home parish, St. Nicholas Church, in Gig Harbor, Washington. (Oregon Province)