We are delighted to share the following information with you provided by our new Interim Director, Michael Villanueva:

Michael is honored to be the new Interim Coordinator of the John Paul II Resource Center. His passion for bringing others to Christ was sparked in high school, thanks to a solid foundation of faith passed on by his parents and a life-changing encounter with Christ at a summer youth conference. This transformative encounter led him to pursue degrees in Philosophy and Theology at Franciscan University of Steubenville, discern the priesthood for three years with the Diocese of Phoenix, and earn his Masters in Theological Studies from the Pontifical John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family in Washington, DC.

Michael has been married to his lovely wife, Rachel, for almost three years. Their daughter, Magdalena, will be two on the Fourth of July and their son, Joseph, recently turned five months old. A basketball aficionado, Michael led the Phoenix Sons to victory over the Church Fathers in the inaugural Diocesan JP2 Classic. He also finds great joy in the theater, a good movie or book, and contemplating life over whiskey and cigars. The life and works of St. John Paul II have guided Michael throughout his own journey, and he draws particular inspiration from the Pope’s heroic witness of love for Christ and for others, especially in the face of great challenge and suffering. Michael is extremely proud to further this work and witness throughout our Diocese.