I was born and raised near Delhi, Ontario Canada, the middle of three children and grew up working on the family farm. After a three year college program in Electro-Mechanical Engineering – Robotics and Automation (1997), I spent two years serving as a missionary with NET Ministry (National Evangelization Teams) located in St. Paul MN. Moving back to Ontario, I volunteered with parish youth groups and worked for three years as an industrial electrician in an automotive factory.
Feeling a call that there was more to life than working as an electrician (though I enjoyed it), in 2002 I left my job to study at Franciscan University of Steubenville OH while immersed in the Priestly Discernment Program. During this time I looked at both diocesan priesthood as well as a number of religious communities. After completing a BA in philosophy and a minor in theology in 2005, and recognizing that I thrived within community, I applied, was accepted and started formation in Loretto, PA with the Franciscan Friars TOR – Province of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. Two years later, on July 7, 2007 (that’s right 07-07-07) I professed first vows of poverty, chastity and obedience, and then started formal seminary studies at The Catholic University of America in Washington DC. I professed solemn vows in July 15, 2011.
On Nov. 26 2011 I was ordained a transitional deacon at which time I served at St. Ambrose Catholic Church in Cheverly, MD. After concluding studies with a Masters of Divinity and graduating in May of 2012 from CUA I moved to Good Shepherd Catholic Community (GSCC) in Fort Worth, Texas to serve as a deacon until my priestly ordination by Bishop Kevin Vann which took place on Nov. 3, 2012. I remained at GSCC as Parochial Vicar through June 2017 after which time I returned to begin ministry at Franciscan University.
Since my return, I have served the evangelization ministries on campus, worked as a campus minister on the Gaming, Austria study abroad program, and spoken or served at numerous summer youth conferences across the US and Canada. I am honored to currently be the first alumnus named as director of the Priestly Discernment Program and feel privileged to journey with so many men who desire to follow God’s call in their lives. I am very excited to be back at Franciscan University to serve in a place that has been pivotal as well as inspirational for my own faith.
My current hobbies include cycling (mountain and road) as well as playing guitar and singing. I also enjoy NASCAR, ultimate Frisbee, hiking, as well as a host of other sports and outdoor activities. One of my favorite scripture verses is Phil 4:4-7 which starts off with: “Rejoice in the Lord always, I say it again: rejoice….” Feel free to ask me why I like it so much. May our Lord bless you abundantly!