From Cathedral to Novitiate: Former Archdiocesan Employee Nick Sanders Begins Jesuit Formation

(Photo courtesy of the Jesuits USA Central and Southern Province)

The Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Denver has long been a place where vocations are nurtured. For Nick Sanders, it was not only a workplace but also part of the path that led him to take a significant step in faith: entering the Jesuit novitiate.

On August 16, Sanders was among ten men welcomed into the Society of Jesus at the Novitiate of St. Stanislaus Kostka in Denver. Over the next two years, he and his companions will immerse themselves in prayer, apostolic service, community life, and the study of Jesuit primary documents as they discern God’s call in their lives.

From Madison to Denver

Sanders was born in Madison, Wisconsin, where he attended Catholic schools, including a Catholic high school founded by the Sinsinawa Dominican sisters. After earning a business degree at the University of Wisconsin, he worked for large corporations in Chicago and Denver. His journey took a turn when he paused his career to volunteer at World Youth Day in Lisbon and walk the Camino de Santiago — two experiences that deepened his sense of God’s presence and call.

Returning to the U.S., Sanders served as director of operations at the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Denver and later as a program manager and finance specialist for the Mission Support Centers in the Archdiocese of Denver. His time in Denver gave him a close view of the Church’s mission in action, from liturgy and administration to evangelization and outreach.

A journey of discernment

Now a Jesuit novice, Sanders joins a centuries-old tradition of men who seek to “find God in all things” through the charism of St. Ignatius of Loyola. For the first two weeks of their novitiate, the new novices set aside cell phones and social media in order to focus on prayer, discernment and community. They closed that period with a three-day silent retreat before fully entering into the rhythm of Jesuit life.

Sanders will be guided in his formation by Jesuit novice directors as he continues to discern the Lord’s call. His companions in the novitiate come from across the United States, with diverse backgrounds ranging from education and theology to finance and international studies.

Gratitude and prayers

For Denver Catholics, Sanders’ step into Jesuit life is a reminder that seeds planted in parish and diocesan ministry can bear fruit in surprising ways. His journey from the pews of Madison to the offices of the cathedral, and now to the novitiate, shows the many paths God uses to call people to serve.

The Jesuits ask the faithful to pray for Sanders and his fellow novices as they begin their journey: that they may grow in generosity, faith and the joy of following Christ wherever he leads.