Fr. Shannon Michael Collins is 40 years old and is a native of Cohasset, Massachusetts. After undergraduate and graduate work in history and education, he taught in Catholic schools for a number of years. Fr. Shannon became a member of the Congregation of the Fathers of Mercy in August of 1994 when he professed the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. Having completed his seminary training at St. Philip Neri Seminary in Toronto, Ontario, he was ordained to the priesthood on June 10, 2000. Presently, Fr. Shannon serves on the mission band of the Fathers of Mercy.

The Congregation of the Fathers of Mercy was founded in 1808, originally under the title of the "Missionaries of France." The community was founded for the purpose of re-evangelizing the French people after after the Church had been subjected to years of persecution during the French Revolution. It is now exclusively and American community. The primary apostolate of the Fathers of Mercy is the preaching of parish missions and retreats throughout the country.During the mission, Fr. Shannon will challenge and encourage the parish community to make a stronger personal commitment to Christ and His Church.

Fr. Shannon Collins' Tapes and CDs - Available from St. Joseph's Communications