I’ve been asked to write a brief biography as a form of introduction to all of you here at St. Paul Newman Center. I was born in the Republic of Cuba in 1957 and my family immigrated to this country in August of 1961 after it became evident that the Revolution in that country would not produce a liberal democratic state but, sadly a totalitarian dictatorship a la Stalin. If you’d like an accurate insight into what this meant and how this affected my development, I’d recommend the film “The Lost City” directed by Andy Garcia.

I grew up in Illinois, about 80 miles southwest of the city of Chicago, in Joliet and Plainfield Illinois. My family eventually moved to California in 1977 and the following year, I entered St. John’s Seminary after a personal conversion experience. I received a BA degree in Philosophy from St. John’s and then, a Masters in Divinity from St. John’s. I was ordained for service to the Diocese of Fresno on 1 June, 1985. I served as a parochial vicar at: the Catholic Church of Merced from 1985-87; St. Francis Church in Bakersfield 1987-89; St. Mary’s Church in Visalia 1989-90. I served as a pastor at St. Thomas Church Arvin 1990-93; and finally, at Holy Family Church in Visalia 1993-2008. I was also a reservist in the USAF and was stationed at Edward’s AFB from 1989 through 1993. I underwent officer training at Lackland AFB in San Antonio, Texas and Chaplaincy training at Maxwell AFB in Montgomery, Alabama. Serving as a chaplain in the USAF was both a privilege and afforded me the practical experience of working with chaplains from other faith traditions.

The last three books which I’ve read include: “The Age of Turbulence” by Alan Greenspan; “The Secret History of the American Empire” by John Perkins; and “Anthem” by Ayn Rand. I particularly recommend the book by Perkins as providing a very disturbing analysis and insight into our role in the world community. Other books which have had a lasting impact in my life include: “The Memoirs” by Cicero and a so dangerous that for centuries it was not permitted to be written in the vernacular, “The Bible”.

My last assignment at Holy Family church in Visalia has been a very rewarding and fulfilling experience. I believe it has been a time of growth for both me and that community. I very much look forward to our time together here at St. Paul Newman Center and trust that the Holy Spirit will guide us all to a deeper personal spiritual growth and to become more fully a living family of faith and love.

Fr. Geoffrey Farrow

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