Coaching Souls and Running the Race with Coach Fr. Jonathan Meyer

What happens when a Catholic priest becomes a high school cross-country coach? In this episode of Life of a Priest, Allie Moroney sits down with Fr. Jonathan Meyer, a dynamic and passionate priest from Southeastern Indiana, who shares his incredible journey to the priesthood and his unique mission of evangelization in public schools.

From Faith-Filled Childhood to Priestly Vocation

Fr. Meyer grew up in a Christian home with a devout Catholic mother and a Lutheran father who later converted to Catholicism. While his father’s conversion didn’t immediately impact him, a pivotal experience in college changed everything. During his time at university, a group of non-denominational Christians led him to a profound encounter with Jesus Christ. This moment sparked a radical transformation, ultimately leading him to discern the priesthood—even though, at the time, he didn’t fully understand Catholic doctrine.

Through his time in seminary at St. John Vianney Seminary in St. Paul, MN, Fr. Meyer discovered the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist, clarity on our Catholic tradition, and priestly fraternity. Ultimately his time in seminary helped bridge the gap between his personal experience of the love of God and the teachings of our One, Holy, and Apostolic Church.

Evangelizing in Public Schools Through Coaching

Beyond his priestly ministry, Fr. Meyer has a surprising role—coaching high school cross-country and track at a public school. He started as a volunteer, later becoming a head coach, a role that allows him to mentor students and share Christian values through sports. Coaching has given him the opportunity to build authentic relationships, teach lessons about discipline, perseverance, and sacrifice, and be a visible witness of Christ in a secular setting.

He walks through the school in his cassock, leading young athletes in developing both their physical and spiritual endurance. His presence has even led to unexpected moments of ministry, from counseling grieving students after tragic losses to supporting young people who struggle with their faith.

The Power of Eucharistic Adoration in Discernment

For those discerning the priesthood or seeking a deeper relationship with God, Fr. Meyer emphasizes the importance of Eucharistic Adoration. Spending time in silence before the Blessed Sacrament transformed his own faith, and he encourages young men discerning their vocation to do the same. He also stresses the need for spiritual direction and taking the bold step of saying yes to God’s call, even when doubts arise.

The Importance of Priestly Fraternity

Fr. Meyer also highlights the value of priestly fraternity and living in community. He believes that priests should not live in isolation but should instead foster brotherhood and accountability. He shares how praying with fellow priests every morning at 6 AM in front of the Blessed Sacrament has strengthened his vocation. His message to young priests and seminarians is clear: build strong relationships, pray for fraternity, and never walk the journey alone.

Faith, Beauty, and Creativity in Evangelization

Another passion of Fr. Meyer is art and beauty in the Church. He has restored multiple church interiors, created immersive catechetical experiences, and even founded a Catholic coffee shop called Ars Café & Meeting House. His belief is that the Catholic faith engages all five senses, and through art, architecture, and even coffee, we can draw people closer to Christ.

A Life on Mission

Fr. Jonathan Meyer is proof that the priesthood is anything but boring. Whether he’s coaching high school athletes, designing sacred spaces, or preaching about the Eucharist, his life is dedicated to bringing souls closer to God. His journey is an inspiration for anyone discerning their vocation, looking to integrate faith into everyday life, or simply seeking a renewed passion for Christ.

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