Editor’s note: National Vocation Awareness Week, celebrated November 3-9, 2024, is an annual week-long celebration of the Catholic Church in the United States dedicated to promoting vocations to the priesthood, diaconate, and consecrated life.
Father Tyler Mentzer, affectionally known as Father Tyler, grew up in Biglerville, PA. He attended church at St. Ignatius of Loyola in Orrtanna and was ordained as a Catholic priest on Oct. 2, 2021, at the National Shrine of Divine Mercy in Stockbridge, Mass.
In a world filled with noise,Tyler heard a gentle and persistent call over time. “the Lord called me to be with him as an invitation. I didn’t choose him,” he said.
As a young adult, Tyler was busy with typical activities such as college and dating. He studied architecture and played college baseball at Philadelphia University, now named Jefferson University. Although he hadn’t really considered the priesthood as a vocation, he attended mass, church events, and faith groups while in college.
One day he asked the Lord, “what did you make me to be?” A line in the book Heart on Fire struck him, and he knew he had to become a priest. “It hit me over the head with a 2×4,” he said,
Tyler attended Saint Charles Borremeo Seminary for three years, then joined the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception and graduated from the Pontifical College of the Dominican House of Studies in Washington DC with an advanced Theology degree. He also went to Rome to attend school for Formation work.
Tyler credits Father Carl Steffen, now deceased, and Doug and Terry Edwards for their intercession. Steffen was the priest for many years at St. Ignatius and the Edwards are parishioners there. They initiated the Pilgrim Cross Program at the parish in order to help with vocation ministry. Parishioners take turns having a cross in their home and saying prayers for one week at a time. The cross rotates among various households within the church. People say prayers to have more priests.
Valerie and Rob Mentzer provided nurturing love and support to their son Tyler growing up. Valerie stated, “the best part of parenting is learning from your own children. Both of our boys have been that for us.” Their other son, Zach, is a licensed architect. They learn from him as well. Valerie stated, “I credit Ty as leading our whole family to a much deeper faith.” She additionally shared, “Ty gave our oldest grandson, Bennett his First Holy Communion.” They are happy for their sons. At first, they weren’t sure if Tyler’s community was cloistered, meaning an order which limits interactions with ones’ family. While they would have accepted that, they’re pleased that the Marian Fathers have been such a blessing. Valerie describes the Marian Fathers as a hospitable Religious Order.
Currently, life is quite busy for Tyler. He is part of the Marian Fathers, located in Washington, DC. He is furthering his education studying for his Licentiate Degree in Marriage and Family Studies at the John Paul II Institute located by Catholic University. His days are filled with classes which are within walking distance to his residence. At noon he says prayers with his community in their chapel followed by lunch.
He still dedicates time to provide Spiritual Direction individually to a handful of people. He hears confessions at the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, DC. Fr. Tyler also maintains secretary and treasure duties of the house. At 5:00 p.m., his community meets to say the rosary and evening prayers followed by dinner together.
In his spare time, Tyler has led healing services at local churches. He is on-call during the day for possible priestly ministries as well. Despite being so busy, Fr. Tyler faithfully visits parishioners in his home parish in Buchanan Valley and assists with mass from time to time.
Tyler tells others, “Be open to where God is calling you.” “God’s plans for you are bigger than you’ve ever imagined.” He is thankful that he became a priest. He added, “you can see religious sisters who are giddy over God.” Mentzer said, “having a religious vocation allows for a joy-filled life.”
Amy Thomas, Contributing Editor, is responsible for community outreach, including our social media presence. She, her husband, and her two children reside in Adams County. Amy also works in occupational therapy and volunteers with local organizations.