“Father Betz Is a Capuchin priest, now the Pastor of St. John the Evangelist Church in Center City Philadelphia. Born in New Castle, Pennsylvania, he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Counseling Psychology from St. Fidelis College, and continued his education, receiving a JD degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. After working as a law clerk and associate lawyer, he enrolled in the Catholic University of America, receiving his Master’s Degree in Theology while earning post-MA credits in pastoral ministry and theology. While in school, Fr. Betz continued to work as a legal research and writing assistant at the Office of Legal Services for the National Association of Treasurers of Religious Institutions, and as a legal services coordinator for Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Pittsburgh. He was ordained on June 1, 1991.

In the years since, Fr. Betz has distinguished himself, working with poor urban parishes in Cleveland, volunteering as a lawyer for the indigent and as Associate Pastor of Holy Redeemer Chinese Catholic Church in Philadelphia, eventually becoming Coordinator of the Chinese Apostolate there. As Vocation Minister for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, he has helped to increase the number of men in formation from fewer than 10 to 40. Currently he is the Provincial Minister for the Capuchin Friars, Province of St. Augustine in Pittsburgh.

For his work in the community Fr. Betz has received the Papal Honor of Cross: Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice and the St. Thomas Moore Award, which is given to outstanding lawyers by the Philadelphia St. Thomas Moore Society.”

Taken from padrepiofestivalhollandpa.com