Fr. Burke Masters: The Baseball Priest

Fr. Burke Masters is a man whose life has been shaped by two great passions: baseball and faith. Known as "The Baseball Priest," his journey from the baseball diamond to the priesthood is an inspiring testament to the power of God's call.

From the Ballfield to the Altar

Born and raised in Joliet, Illinois, Fr. Burke attended Providence Catholic High School, where his journey to Catholicism began. Though he wasn’t raised Catholic, his time at the school exposed him to the faith, leading him to convert in 1985 during his senior year.

He later enrolled at Mississippi State University to study mathematics. During his time there, he represented the university in the 1990 College World Series. Like many student-athletes, his main focus was sports, fitting in his faith when time permitted. He had dreams of marriage and a future in baseball, but God had other plans in store for him.

A Divine Calling

While in college, Fr. Burke’s girlfriend invited him to eucharistic adoration. Although he was initially hesitant, fearing the silence and what God might say to him, he still went along with her. While in the adoration chapel, he heard something unexpected—God calling him to become a priest.

Confused and unsure, he asked God for a sign. The affirmation came as people around him began telling him he would make a great priest.

Eventually, he embraced this call and entered the Mundelein Seminary in 1997.

A Life of Service

Fr. Burke was ordained a priest on June 1, 2002. He began his priesthood at St. Mary’s in West Chicago, where he served for four years. From 2006 to 2018, he was the vocation director for the Diocese of Joliet, guiding others to discern their call to the priesthood. Later, from 2018 to 2022, he led the Office of Adult Formation and Evangelization, continuing his mission to bring people closer to Christ. 

Despite becoming a priest, Fr. Burke's passion for baseball never faded. From 2013, he began serving as the Catholic chaplain for the Chicago Cubs.

Recognizing the powerful connection between faith and athletics, he co-founded Catholic Sports Camps with Kansas City Royals Hall of Famer Mike Sweeney. These camps allow young athletes to grow spiritually while developing their athletic skills.

 Leading St. Isaac Jogues Parish

On July 1, 2022, Fr. Burke became the 9th pastor of St. Isaac Jogues Parish in Hinsdale, Illinois. In this role, he continues to guide parishioners in their faith journey while using his unique background to connect with people from all walks of life.

A Legacy of Faith and Sports

Fr. Burke Masters' story is one of transformation, faith, and trust in God’s plan. His journey from a baseball player with dreams of marriage to a devoted priest exemplifies the beauty of listening to God's call. Whether on the field, in the parish, or ministering to professional athletes, "The Baseball Priest" remains dedicated to using his gifts to inspire others and spread the message of Christ.

By Catholic Connect Reporter