A New Generation of Priests: Why Successful Executives, Entrepreneurs, and Military Leaders Are Answering God's Call

In today's world, success is often measured by income, titles, promotions, influence, and achievements. Yet a growing number of highly accomplished men are walking away from prestigious careers, financial success, and worldly recognition to become Catholic priests. These are not men who failed in the world. They are men who succeeded in it and discovered that even great success cannot satisfy the deepest longing of the human heart. As St. Augustine wrote: "You have made us for Yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in You." For many, priesthood is not a retreat from success. It is the fulfillment of it.

When Achievement Leaves You Wanting More

Many professionals spend years climbing the ladder of success only to discover that something is still missing. The next promotion doesn't bring lasting fulfillment. The bigger paycheck doesn't create inner peace. The impressive title doesn't answer life's biggest questions. Military veterans often experience something similar. After serving a mission greater than themselves, many begin searching for an even deeper purpose. For some, that purpose is found in the Catholic priesthood.

From Business Success to the Altar

One inspiring example is Scott Vincent Borba, co-founder of e.l.f. Cosmetics.

After achieving remarkable entrepreneurial success, Borba experienced a profound conversion and chose a completely different path. He entered seminary and was ordained a Catholic priest in 2026. His story reminds us that no amount of earthly success can compare to helping lead souls toward God. Another example is Fr. Ken Geraci, who built a successful software company before rediscovering his Catholic faith and answering God's call. Today he serves as a missionary priest, using his business experience to connect with people and bring them closer to Christ.

Leadership Skills in Service to God

Many second-career priests bring valuable experience into ministry. Former executives, entrepreneurs, physicians, attorneys, and business leaders often possess leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills that greatly benefit parishes and dioceses. Their real-world experience helps them relate to families, professionals, and young people facing life's challenges. Perhaps even more importantly, their willingness to leave behind wealth and status provides a powerful witness that Christ is worth everything.

Military Leaders Answering a Higher Calling

The military has also produced many extraordinary priests. Veterans understand sacrifice, discipline, courage, and servant leadership. These qualities naturally translate into priestly ministry. Many newly ordained priests have prior military experience, bringing resilience and compassion to their vocation.

The Inspiring Story of Fr. Onyema Okorie

One outstanding example is Fr. Onyema Okorie. Born in Nigeria, he possessed the intelligence and ambition to succeed in many professions. Instead, he chose priesthood. After the September 11 attacks, he joined the United States Air Force as a chaplain and served for 20 years, including deployment to Iraq. Widely respected for his ministry to service members, he became known as a compassionate and effective spiritual leader. Today he continues serving others through his priestly ministry, demonstrating that true greatness is measured by service, sacrifice, and faithfulness to God's call.

Why Successful Professionals Often Make Outstanding Priests

Proven Leadership - Executives and military officers know how to lead people, solve problems, and make difficult decisions.
Real-World Experience - They understand workplace pressures, family responsibilities, and the challenges people face every day.
A Powerful Witness - Leaving behind wealth, status, and comfort to follow Christ sends a powerful message about what truly matters.
Spiritual Fatherhood - In a culture increasingly lacking positive role models, priests provide guidance, wisdom, and strength to those searching for direction.

From the Playing Field to the Pulpit

Athletes have also answered God's call throughout history. The discipline, leadership, and perseverance that lead to success in sports often prepare men for a life of service in the Church. Father Ed Benioff of the Church of the Good Shepherd in Beverly Hills was once a talented quarterback before becoming a priest. His journey reminds us that God can use the same gifts that bring success on the field to help lead souls closer to Him.

Could God Be Calling You?

Many men assume they are too old or too established to consider priesthood. The truth is that God calls people at every stage of life. If you have ever felt that there must be something more, don't ignore it. Pray. Attend Mass. Spend time before the Blessed Sacrament. Speak with a vocation director. Ask God what He wants for your life.

The Greatest Success of All

The world teaches us to pursue power, status, wealth, and recognition. Jesus teaches something different. "What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?" (Mark 8:36) The growing number of executives, athletes, entrepreneurs, and military leaders entering the priesthood provide a powerful answer. They have discovered that the greatest success is not building a company or climbing a corporate ladder. The greatest success is becoming the person God created you to be and helping others find their way to Him.

The Catholic Church needs strong, faithful, courageous leaders now more than ever. Men who have succeeded in business. Men who have served in uniform or in sports. Men who are willing to place their talents and experience completely in God's hands. Perhaps the next great priest is sitting in a boardroom, leading a company, serving in the military, or wondering why success alone still feels incomplete. And perhaps God is calling him to something greater.

Know someone who might be discerning a vocation? Share this article with them. One conversation could help change a life forever.