09/05/2026
Please read this message from Mason Netzband:
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"Friends,
It is with a profound sense of peace, yet also sadness, that I share my decision to step away from the seminary formation program for the Diocese of Syracuse. My most recent infusion treatment has resulted in new health issues that have required me to step back and focus on managing them.
As I said in my reflection a few weeks ago, God invites us to follow his will daily, and we are to reply with a bold and profound “YES” no matter what that invitation is. God has invited me to continue carrying this cross with my health. I ask that you pray that I may continue to answer YES to carrying this cross with much grace and peace, knowing that it is what the Lord wills for my life right now.
This post, however, is not for attention or sympathy; it is for thanksgiving and gratitude for the journey I have been blessed to have had these past several years.
First, I want to thank the parishioners of Spirit of Hope. Before I became sick, I was warmly welcomed by you all when I was first accepted to the seminary. When I became sick and had to defer my studies, the love and support I received from you was deeply appreciated not only by me, but also by my family.
Then, when I left for my first year of seminary, the love and support I continued to receive from you—whether through letters, conversations, or your kindness when I was home for breaks—gave me the encouragement I needed to persevere through the difficult moments.
Secondly, I want to thank the parish staff. You accepted me with open arms when I began working for the parish. The love and kindness each of you showed me truly made me feel at home and made me feel like I was part of a parish family.
Lastly, I need to thank the Pastor of Spirit of Hope, Fr. Christopher Ballard for the generosity he has shown me over these past few years. Words cannot describe how grateful I am that he took me under his wing and guided me throughout this journey. If it were not for him, I may never have considered the possibility of becoming a priest. He has walked with me through some of the toughest times of my life and showed me how one can be happy when they are living out Gods vocation for their life. It is with great joy and honor that I call him one of my dearest friends.
Although I will miss seeing you all from the altar, I am excited to gather with you in the pews and worship the great and merciful God whom we are so blessed to have.
This, however, is not the end. God has closed this door for now, and if it is His will, He will open it again for me someday.
I also want to thank the Diocese of Syracuse and Our Lady of Providence Seminary for their generosity, support, and care throughout these past few years. I am especially grateful for their reassurance that the door will always remain open.
Please know how grateful I am for every one of you, and how grateful I am for Spirit of Hope Parish. Your prayers, encouragement, friendship, and love have meant more to me than I could ever adequately express.
May God bless you all, and please continue to keep me in your prayers as you are in mine daily.
"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. — Jeremiah 29:11"
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We continue to love and support Mason on his journey!
