Father Brian Nelson came to St. Francis of Assisi Parish as a newly ordained priest in June 2003, serving as associate pastor until June 2005. Born in Pittsburgh, Kansas, he attended elementary school in Sedgwick, Kansas and graduated from Bishop Carroll High School here in Wichita. Fr. Nelson received is undergraduate degree from St. Mary's University in Winnona, Minnesota. He received his degree in Theology from the Pontifical College Josephinum in Columbus, Ohio. In May of 2003, Fr. Nelson was ordained a priest.
Father Nelson says he may not have considered a vocation to the priesthood without the encouragement he received from many people in his life. "That made me think about it." He says.
When considering membership in the Catholic Church, Father Nelson is most grateful for the Sacraments-especially the Eucharist and Reconciliation. To be able to receive Christ at Mass is a "tremendous gift" that has no comparison. Regarding the Sacrament of Reconciliation, Father Nelson says that to confess your sins, hear the words of absolution and know they are forgiven is "phenomenal".