Following is the “Meet a Reader” that appears in the current print edition of The Catholic Post.
How we know you:
I’m a native of St. Joseph, MO and was ordained for the Diocese of Peoria in 2010. My assignments have included St. Joseph-Pekin and St. John’s Catholic Newman Center in Champaign. Currently, I’m an assistant at the Heart of Peoria Catholic Community.
Why I love reading:
Both of my parents are teachers. Growing up, my dad constantly had his nose stuck in a book. His influence didn’t stick right away. But by early high school I had developed a passion for the written word. As an undergraduate, my interest in reading history led me to major in that very subject. Over the years, I’ve discovered that by being a voracious reader it’s difficult to ever be bored. There is always so much more out there to read.
What I’m reading now:
I just finished Power and Empire, the latest novel in the Tom Clancy/Jack Ryan series. Every year between Thanksgiving and Christmas a new novel in the series is released. It’s my perennial birthday (November 24) gift from my parents. At the moment, I’m reading Ron Chernow’s new biography on General Grant, The Marian Option by Carrie Gress, and re-reading several Scott Hahn works.
My favorite book:
I have many favorite books. Here are a few based on subjects: The Sum of All Fears by Tom Clancy (novel); Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin (history); Searching for and Maintaining Peace and Time for God both by Jacques Philippe (spirituality).