Priests, Deacons, Seminarians Retreat

John Paul Von Arx

John Paul Von Arx seeks to share his faith and love for country music in venues all across America and has been performing professionally for the last 12 years. Since the release of his debut solo album in 2018, John Paul has been known for his advocacy work for people with Down Syndrome and their families. Additionally, in 2020, he began working as a staff member at Franciscan University where he currently oversees Men’s and Women’s Ministry. When not performing or giving talks, he enjoys spending time with his wife and daughters outdoors.

Father Dave Pivonka, TOR

Father Dave Pivonka, TOR ’89, became president of Franciscan University of Steubenville in 2019. A prolific Catholic speaker, author, and host of multiple video series, he received his bachelor’s degree from Franciscan University, then earned his MDiv, MA in theology, doctorate in education, and executive juris doctorate. In 1996, he was ordained a priest in the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus Province of the Franciscan Third Order Regular. Before his election as president, he served Franciscan as vice president for Mission and Planning, then as director of the TOR’s Post-Novitiate Formation and the TOR’s Franciscan Pathways.

Father John Riccardo

Fr. John was ordained a priest of the Archdiocese of Detroit in 1996. In 2019, after 23 years in parish ministry, he founded Acts XXIX to proclaim the gospel in an attractive and compelling way and to equip clergy and lay leaders for the age in which God has chosen us to live. Fr. John is a graduate of the University of Michigan, the Gregorian University, and the Pope John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and the Family.

Albert Faraj

A husband, father, and grandfather, Albert has been active in parish life throughout his entire adult life. He brings over 30 years of experience in leadership in both entrepreneurial and corporate settings. His expertise includes developing leadership teams, vision and strategy, and operationalizing transformation. His work has spanned multiple continents. He is a graduate of Eastern Michigan University and the University of Michigan.

Mary Guilfoyle

A wife, mother, and grandmother, Mary is a former parish Director of Evangelization and Discipleship. She has equipped more than 100 parishes in prayerfully discerning how to best care for those in the pews, and reach the fallen away and the lost. She's passionate about helping disciples form small group communities in order to live more authentically human lives. Mary is a graduate of Washburn University.

Rick Popp

A husband and father, Rick is a recognized authority in leadership with over 30 years experience as a consultant and HR executive. As an active part of the leadership team, he equips bishops, pastors, leaders, and their teams for Mission. Rick is a graduate of Northern Michigan University.