Fr. John Brundage

Become a Priest

Ordination Anniversary:

May 30, 2026

Hi Everyone,

After eight long years I will finally become a priest this year. As I give my life in service to God and his Church, remember that it is my sacrifice and yours. In giving our life to God, we receive his. This dream and calling of mine would not have been possible without your support. Please say a prayer for me and consider financially supporting our campaign!

All the best,

Deacon John

Where are you from?

I grew up in Dexter, Michigan.

When you were a child, what did you dream of becoming when you grew up?

When I was small, I wanted to grow up to be a cowboy, a firefighter, and a baker!

What was your background before you joined the Companions of the Cross?

After high school I studied for four years at Wayne State University, majoring in philosophy. After graduating I was extremely blessed to be able to spend three years working as a campus missionary with Catholic Christian Outreach at Mount Royal University in Calgary.

What are your special interests?

My favorite things to talk about are Catholic theology and sports (Go Blue and go Lions!). My hobbies include writing, running, photography, climbing, and playing chess. I write a Substack newsletter called ‘Integrated Prayer‘ where I share my reflections and photography.

Who, or what, inspires you?

I am inspired by people who model the fruits of the Holy Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, self control (see Galatians 5:22-23). They motivate me to pursue greater holiness and integrity.

What led you to join the Companions of the Cross? Could you briefly explain your vocations story?

I came back to my faith while in university. As a teenager I had walked away from my Catholic upbringing entirely. But, through the persistent efforts and sacrifices of Fr. Simon Lobo and the students at the Wayne State University Chaplaincy, I came to a point where I was willing to give God another chance. During a winter retreat with them I had a life changing encounter with Jesus that inspired me to dedicate my life to following him. Shortly afterwards, I got a firm and persistent sense that I would one day become a priest.

I continued to wrestle with and discern this sense; some days it filled me with joy and anticipation, other days not so much! Fr. Timothy Gallagher’s podcast series on the Discernment of Spirits, and his series on the Discernment of God’s Will, were invaluable resources for me. What clinched my decision to move forward was looking back on my spiritual life and seeing that I was always attracted to the priesthood when I felt close to God, and was living at my best. I look forward to seeing what the Lord has in store for me as I finish my time in formation.