Early Life and Education

Born and Raised

Fr. John Riccardo was born and raised in Birmingham, Michigan, as the youngest of five children. He attended Holy Name Catholic School and Shrine of the Little Flower High School.

Pre-Seminary

Before entering the seminary, he worked in the secular world for several years, gaining valuable life experience.

Seminary Studies

He studied philosophy at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit, Michigan. He then moved to Rome and completed his theological studies at the Pontifical Gregorian University.

Priesthood and Ministry

Ordination

Fr. John Riccardo was ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of Detroit in 1996.

Early Ministry

He served as an associate pastor at Divine Child Parish in Dearborn, Michigan, from 1996 to 1999.

ACTS XXIX

He is the Executive Director of ACTS XXIX, a vibrant non-profit organization established to help parishes and dioceses experience renewal and become more mission-oriented.

National Presence

Fr. John Riccardo is highly sought-after as a speaker at retreats, conferences, and diocesan events across the United States.

Media Ministry

His popular weekly radio show, “Christ is the Answer,” is broadcast across the EWTN Global Catholic Radio Network. He also creates engaging digital media content.

Focus and Message

Fr. John Riccardo is known for his passionate, direct, and inspiring style of preaching. His ministry focuses on these central themes:

• Evangelization: He emphasizes the urgent need for Catholics to embrace their call to share the Gospel boldly with others.
• Spiritual Renewal: He promotes the ongoing need for personal and communal conversion in the heart of every Christian.
• Missionary Discipleship: He encourages Catholics to cultivate a missionary mindset, bringing the love and truth of Christ to all aspects of their lives.

Additional Information

• Alma Mater: Fr. John Riccardo is a graduate of the University of Michigan, The Gregorian University in Rome, and The Pope John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and the Family.
• Alpha USA: He is a regular speaker and member of the Alpha USA Pastors Forum, dedicated to promoting evangelization efforts.
• Social Presence: He is active on social media, providing insights and inspiration. Find him on various platforms like Twitter and Facebook.

Where to Find His Work

• ACTS XXIX Website: Learn more about his ministry and resources at actsxxix.org.
• Radio Broadcasts: Listen to “Christ Is the Answer” on the EWTN website or on your local Catholic radio station.
• YouTube and Social Media: Follow him for short videos and reflections.

Impact

Fr. John Riccardo’s ministry has had a significant impact within the Catholic Church. His tireless work and passionate approach to evangelization inspire both clergy and laity, encouraging spiritual renewal and a stronger commitment to the Christian mission.