Fr. Don Ware, C.P. was born in Pittsburgh in December of 1944. He entered the Passionist Seminary as a young man, and took his vows in 1965 at St. Paul’s Monastery. He finished his studies for the priesthood in 1972, earning two Master’s Degrees, one in Theology and the other in Pastoral Counseling, both from St. John’s University in New York.

After Ordination in 1972 he worked in Passionist Retreat Centers, ministering to both youth and adults. From 1985 – 2000 Fr. Don was Director of three of the largest Passionist Retreat Centers: 1985 – 1991 Pittsburgh; 1991 – 1994 West Springfield, MA; and 1994 – 2000 Riverdale (Bronx). In the summer of 2001 Fr. Don returned to Pittsburgh as assistant superior of St. Paul’s Monastery, where 12 Passionist priests and brothers now reside. His experience as a priest includes administration of large retreat movements, lay leadership training, worship leadership, and preaching the Word of God. He has also done continuing study in spiritual direction, business ethics, work spirituality, and elder spirituality.

Fr. Don is Director of the Passionist’s lay associates in Pittsburgh and coordinates the Eastern Passionist Province’s lay associate sites. Fr. Don is also active in Pittsburgh’s South Side Slopes Neighborhood Association. He presently serves on its Board of Directors and is Chairperson of its Elm Street Committee. Fr. Donald has preached parish missions in Pittsburgh and surrounding areas since 2002. He preaches regularly at the Monastery services, and serves as a member of the retreat team.

Source:  stpaulsretreatcenter-pittsburgh.org