Ryan Stawaisz


Ryan Andrew Stawaisz was an American Roman Catholic priest in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston.

Biography

Stawaisz was born in Aberdeen, Scotland, on 18 August 1989 to Ray and Susan Stawaisz.
He attended Texas A&M University, studying Petroleum Engineering and graduating in 2011.
During his studies, Stawaisz was diagnosed with cancer; however, after several months of treatment including surgery, he recovered. After attending a Catholic retreat, he was inspired to join the priesthood.
After graduating from college, Stawaisz entered Saint Joseph Seminary College in Covington, Louisiana, where he earned a degree in philosophy. He went on to study at Saint Mary's Seminary in Houston, Texas, and shortly before his ordination, he received another cancer diagnosis. He was ordained to the diaconate and eventually to the priesthood on 1 June 2019.
He began his ministry at Prince of Peace Catholic Church as a parochial vicar. He continued ministering even while undergoing cancer treatment.
Stawaisz died on 21 June 2021.

Legacy

A film entitled Love God's Will: The True Story of Fr. Ryan Stawaisz was produced by Palomita Films about his life. As well as recounting Stawaisz's biography, it explores the case for him being beatified.