A Shepherd in the City: The Remarkable Life of Father Ed Benioff

In the heart of Beverly Hills, where luxury often overshadows suffering and spiritual hunger, one man quietly wears many hats - servant, leader, teacher, pastor, and visionary. That man is Father Ed Benioff, and his story is one of deep faith, compassionate action, and tireless devotion to the people of God. For years, Father Ed has faithfully led the Church of the Good Shepherd, not just as a parish priest but as a spiritual father to one of the most diverse and dynamic Catholic communities in the country. His influence extends far beyond the sanctuary. Whether you meet him in the pews, on the streets, at a school Mass, or in a soup line, one thing is clear: this is a man who lives the Gospel with fire, humility, and purpose.

From Educator to Evangelizer
Before embracing his priestly vocation, Father Ed was deeply rooted in education, following in the footsteps of his parents. His gift for teaching and guiding others laid a strong foundation for ministry. After his ordination in 2007, he brought both heart and experience into his priestly work. Recognizing his zeal for outreach and formation, Archbishop José H. Gomez appointed him as Director of the Office of New Evangelization for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles in 2013. There, he spearheaded initiatives to reignite faith in the lapsed, welcome back the searching, and equip Catholics to share the Gospel in a modern world. It was evangelization at full throttle - and Father Ed thrived.

Leading with Compassion in Beverly Hills
In 2015, Father Ed was appointed pastor of the Church of the Good Shepherd. Under his leadership, the parish has flourished as a vibrant, welcoming community marked by deep spirituality, inclusiveness, and active service. His ministry is holistic - rooted in the sacraments but alive in the streets. He meets people where they are, offering prayer, wisdom, and support in both the ordinary and extraordinary moments of life. He navigates the complexities of an affluent, fast-paced community with grace and boldness, never losing sight of the Gospel's call to love the least among us.

Serving the Forgotten in the Midst of Glamour
What sets Father Ed apart is his unwavering heart for the poor. In a city where poverty is often hidden behind designer storefronts and red-carpet events, he saw the need and responded - boldly. When the COVID-19 pandemic struck and hunger surged across Los Angeles, Father Ed launched FeedMyPoor.com - a grassroots effort that rapidly became a nonprofit force for good. What began as handing out sandwiches has grown into a mobile ministry delivering hot, nutritious meals throughout Skid Row, Venice Beach, and MacArthur Park. Powered by a dedicated food truck and staffed in part by those who have experienced homelessness themselves, the initiative restores not just bodies, but dignity and hope. It’s not just about food - it’s about presence, connection, and mercy made visible.

Champion of Catholic Education
Father Ed’s love for formation extends to the young hearts and minds of Good Shepherd Catholic School (GSBH.net). There, he is more than a figurehead - he’s a daily presence, a mentor, and a joyful witness to the faith. He celebrates school Masses, visits classrooms, and supports families in living out the Catholic values they chose for their children. His warm, approachable style makes him beloved by students, parents, and teachers alike, ensuring that faith formation is not limited to religion class - but lived out in every corner of school life.

A Visionary of Faith and Action
From organizing parish missions and retreats, to building bridges between generations and cultures, to assisting in online evangelization through initiatives like FreeCatholicVideos.com, Father Ed is constantly looking ahead. He knows the Church must proclaim Christ in both timeless ways and new frontiers - on the streets, in classrooms, and across digital spaces. He challenges minds while comforting hearts. He speaks hard truths, but always in love. And whether you’re wealthy or wandering, practicing or doubtful, he extends the same invitation: Come back to Jesus. Come home to the Church.

A Shepherd With the Smell of His Sheep
Pope Francis calls priests to “smell like their sheep” - to live close to the people, in their joys and their sorrows. Few fulfill this call as fully as Father Ed. He is present: at hospital bedsides, in reconciliation lines, at early morning Masses, and during late-night phone calls. He makes time for the individual, because to him, every soul matters.

A Servant Worth Celebrating
Father Ed Benioff is not just a good priest - he is a priest for our time. In an era hungry for authentic leadership, he offers bold faith, grounded wisdom, and deep compassion. He honors tradition while embracing change. He uplifts the Church while bending low to serve its most vulnerable members. In a world yearning for hope and meaning, Father Ed reminds us - through every Mass, every meal, and every conversation - that Christ is alive and the Church is still a home for all. And if you’re ever in Beverly Hills on a Sunday morning, stop by the Church of the Good Shepherd. You just might find Father Ed greeting you at the door with a smile, a challenge, and a heart wide open.