Current Ministry (2025)
Fr. Michael Is a police chaplain on the campus of William & Mary, where he also serves as a Campus Police Chaplain for Christopher Newport University Police Dept. His ongoing work focuses on spiritual formation, discipleship, and pastoral care for students, staff, and members of the campus community.
He is additionally adjunct faculty at both William & Mary and Christopher Newport University, teaching Ethics and Leadership in ROTC programs and shaping the moral and professional development of future military officers.
Early Life & Calling
Born and raised in Newark, New Jersey, Fr. Michael is the only son of a 100% disabled veteran and a hardworking mother. His family lived in veteran-designated housing projects that later expanded to serve lower-income families.
Michael served as an altar boy from a young age, and his local priest recognized his calling to the priesthood early on—even encouraging his father to consider parochial school, though finances made it impossible.
During his teenage years, Michael drifted into gang involvement, drinking, and behaviors that damaged his academic performance. At age 17, with his parents’ permission, he enlisted in the United States Navy. He served in the Navigation Division aboard the USS Coral Sea (CVA-43) off the coast of Vietnam during 1971–1972.
It was during this deployment that he experienced a profound encounter with the Holy Spirit—a moment of conversion that redirected the course of his life and called him into full-time ministry.
Education & Ministry Formation
Facing major academic deficits, Michael sought help from a former school superintendent who helped him rebuild his educational foundation. His testimony eventually moved the President of St. Peter’s College in Jersey City to offer him an opportunity to enroll.
This led to a distinguished academic path:
•Holy Apostles College & Seminary — B.A.
•Yale Divinity School — M.Div.
•Harvard Divinity School — Th.M.
(His PhD is in Mariology and Ecumenical Studies. )
Fr. Michael also served as pastor of an Evangelical Charismatic church in New England for twenty years before entering broader chaplaincy and academic ministry.
He has conducted research with the Cambridge Theological Federation in Cambridge, England, and has contributed to published academic theological works.
Family Life
Fr. Michael married his wife, Doreen, in 1976. Together they adopted five children and are now blessed with eight grandchildren. His family remains a central source of joy and strength in his ongoing ministry.
