Name: Father Michael Spiekermeier
Age: 66
Year ordained: 1969
Current assignment: Pastor, St. Paul the Apostle Church, Davenport; Dean of Davenport Deanery
How did you know you were being called to priesthood? I tried to avoid it, but as a result of getting involved in service projects in college, including the campus Legion of Mary and working with young people our age who were paralyzed, and working with campus organizations (National Federation of Catholic College Students), I decided to give the seminary a try.
Aside from your ordination Mass, what was your most memorable Mass? My farewell Mass at Holy Family School in Davenport and my 25th anniversary Mass at Cardinal Stritch High School in Keokuk.
What is most rewarding about being a priest? All of my priesthood I have enjoyed working with young people. I also enjoy serving people in ministry.
What is most challenging about being a priest? As a pastor, trying to fund the various programs and also trying to keep people mindful that God has to be number one in our lives and that the Mass is the most important thing that we do as Catholic Christians.
What is your favorite Scripture passage? Hebrews 5:1 (Every priest is called forth from the Christian community to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins — thus my First Mass theme: The Christian Community Celebrates.) The parish community has to be the source of vocations to the church.
What is your hobby? Travel; I like to explore the USA.
