The skateboarding world welcomes a unique addition as Father John Paul Mary Zeller, MFVA, embraces a new journey with the Motherboard's Skate Team. With an extraordinary blend of priesthood and skateboarding passion, Father John Paul Mary adds a distinct dimension to the team's vibrant spirit.
Born on May 7th, 1976, in New Freedom, Pennsylvania, Father John Paul Mary Zeller, MFVA, discovered his love for skateboarding and an adventurous spirit that has continued to thrive alongside his priestly journey.
His path meandered through academia, earning an associates degree in engineering from DeVry Institute of Technology in 2000. However, his calling to the priesthood became undeniable, leading him to become a seminarian for the Diocese of Harrisburg, PA. His dedication and commitment eventually brought him to the Franciscan Missionaries of the Eternal Word, where he embraced his vocation wholeheartedly.
Ordained as a deacon on June 2, 2012, and as a priest on June 22, 2013, by Bishop Robert Baker, Father John Paul Mary's devotion to faith didn't require him to give up his love for skateboarding.
His backyard basketball court serves as his favorite skate spot, symbolizing the simplicity and joy he finds in skateboarding. Beyond borders, his skateboard has sparked intriguing conversations during his global travels, notably at the International Eucharistic Congress in Budapest, where his board became a conversation starter.
Father John Paul Mary Zeller's addition to the Motherboards Skate team reflects an inspiring blend of faith and recreation. His engaging presence and unique journey promise to infuse the team with a vibrant energy as we fight the culture war through promoting Christianity in the Skate scene.
Follow Father John Paul Mary's remarkable journey and stay connected on social media: Instagram: @FranciscanMissionaries, Facebook: MFVA Friars, Twitter: MFVA Friars, TikTok: @franciscanmissionaries.
