Washington Local Parishes

Dear Friends,

Hi there! My name is Father Maurer – I am pastor of the parishes of Lewis county, assisted by our vicar, Father Chris. I’m very glad you’ve come to visit our communities here online – we’d be delighted if you can join us offline for confession, Masses and the various events that happen throughout the year.
 
Since you clicked on my bio page, here’s a little bit about myself! My folks are originally from Minnesota, but shortly after I was born there (1982) my father joined the Navy. He served for twenty years, with our family moving every few years. During that time we lived in Connecticut, Rhode Island, California, the Phillipines (Manila), Singapore, Virginia and Hawaii before settling in Washington. Over the years our family was expanded in the birth of my brother, the adoption of my sister and another brother as well as hosting my foster brother for a couple of years.
 
As we grew in size and years, our family also drew closer to the Church. My mother is an accomplished musician and has played the organ since she was a teenager. Each time we would move to a new location, she would find a church in need of an organist and play there. This was usually at a Protestant church, so we would go to the Saturday vigil Mass and then show up for all the services she played at. As you can imagine, this prompted many conversations about the differences and similarities between Protestants & Catholics. Faith became a regular topic at dinner, especially on Sunday evening.
 
At my father’s penultimate duty station in Hawaii and inspired by our local parish priest, I began discerning priesthood. When we moved to Washington, I started spiritual direction, applied to the archdiocese and eventually became a seminarian. I studied at Saint John’s in Camarillo (California) for college and went to Mundelein Seminary in Illinois. I was ordained for the archdiocese of Seattle in 2009 on the feast of Saint Anthony of Padua (June 13^th).
 
As a priest I served in Tacoma, Olympia and now Lewis county. Hands down, the best part of priesthood for me is celebrating the Mass and hearing confessions. To be a part of the mercy of God, delivering His grace and His very Body & Blood – whew! We are blessed.
 
I hope you’ll consider coming by in person to any one of our communities. I’d love to meet you and welcome you personally. In the meantime, may God bless you abundantly!
 
Peace,
Father Maurer

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