The Heart of a Missionary Priest: Fr. Simon Cleary

Amidst the hustle and bustling of Manila traffic, you’ll find Father Simon Cleary, LC—a New Zealand-born missionary priest living his calling through service to the youth at a Catholic school. His life is a testament to the heart and charism of what it means to be a missionary. From his early days in Dunedin, New Zealand, to his ministry in the Philippines, Father Simon’s story is filled with inspiration, grace, and the gentle humor that marks his personality.

A Call from Across the World

Father Simon’s journey to the priesthood began at age 14 when he attended a Catholic summer camp in the United States. Leaving the cold winters of New Zealand for a sun-soaked American camp was a no-brainer for teenage Simon, especially with a promised stop at Disneyland on the return trip. But what awaited him at Camp Eaglescliff was far more transformative than he could have imagined— real joy.

Father recalled that it was at camp that he encountered true joy. “They weren't telling me they were happy, they weren't faking it. And that was something I wanted more.”

Learning to Love What God Loves

Father Simon described his initial response to the priestly call as an act of obedience rather than desire. “It was like an arranged marriage,” he joked. “You learn to love it as you go.”

His discernment deepened during a turbulent period in 2009 when his congregation, the Legionaries of Christ, faced a crisis. In prayer, Father Simon asked God what his heart was made for. Through reflection, he realized his deepest desires aligned perfectly with the Legion’s charism: to love Christ, serve others, and build the Church. “It became clear I was made for this.”

Discovering God’s hand at work, in and through the scandal, fortified Father’s conviction in his calling to be a part of a great mission to bring about restoration to his order and the Church as a Legionary preist.

Life as a Missionary in the Philippines

For the past five years, Father Simon has served in a school for the poor in Manila, offering not only academic education but hope and spiritual formation. Each day begins early, with a mass at dawn followed by mentoring students, overseeing activities, and planning retreats. His mission extends beyond academics to helping families break free from cycles of poverty. “I’ve seen students become the first in their families to attend university,” he shared.

The open-hearted kindness of the Filipino people has left a deep impression on Father Simon. Despite the material struggles many face, he finds they have a greater openness to the faith and come alive in working together to serve. “We all want these young people to overcome limitations, to find a better house, to have a better job. We're on the same side fighting material poverty while also teaching and growing in the faith. ” he said.

Confession: A Sacred Joy

When asked about his personal charism, Father Simon pointed to the Sacrament of confession. “There’s nothing like seeing someone leave the confessional light as a feather,” he said. “When people are in the state of grace and they know they are forgiven and loved by God, there's a joy that's there.”

Advice for Discerners: Listen to Your Heart

For young men discerning the priesthood, Father Simon offers this wisdom: “Don’t be afraid to ask what your heart is made for. Look at your happiest moments, the things you’re most proud of, and ask God what they mean for you.”

He encourages discerners to give God the first chance, even if the path seems uncertain. “God is never outdone in generosity,” he said. “Take a step in faith and trust He will lead you.”

Listen to Fr. Simons’s story now!

A Sacred Heart Devotion

Father Simon’s devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus shines in his series Enter into His Heart, available on the Tabella app. Created during the pandemic, the series invites listeners to see Christ not just as Lord, but as a friend—a friend whose heart is open and inviting.

“The Sacred Heart reminds us that Jesus desires to be loved, not feared,” Father Simon explained. “I hope this series helps people deepen their relationship with Him as a friend and companion on their journey.”

Father Simon Cleary’s life is a beautiful witness to the power of surrender, trust, and joy in Christ. Whether serving in a school for the poor or guiding souls in confession, his ministry radiates the love of the Sacred Heart.

To learn more about Father Simon’s work and hear his reflections, download the Tabella app and tune into Enter into His Heart. Let his story inspire you to ask what your heart is made for—and to boldly follow wherever Christ leads.