He grew up in Austin and first encountered Catholicism at St. Mary Cathedral, then converted as an adult while living out of state. He first began to consider the priesthood in 2015 while serving as a submarine officer in the Navy. For two years, he was responsible for organizing and leading the Liturgy of the Word while the sub was at sea.

Then he served as a middle school confirmation preparation catechist and the experience of being a spiritual father struck a chord in his heart.

During his pastoral year at St. Louis Parish in Waco, Deacon Spears led a Eucharistic procession at Bishop Louis Reicher Catholic School.

“The sight of our students, reverently kneeling and singing songs of praise before Our Lord, was very moving and one of the most memorable experiences in my time of formation,” he said.

He is grateful for those who have tirelessly prayed for him during his seminary studies.

“I most look forward to making the love of Christ present to others in the celebration of the Eucharist and reconciliation,” Deacon Spears said. In these beautiful sacraments, the people of God encounter the Lord’s mercy and sanctifying love, and as a spiritual father, I look forward to sharing that love.