Who is Fr. Daniel Belken?
Besides being the author of this website, there are many ways to describe who I am! First, a child of God, just like any of you! Yes, I am also a Catholic Priest, ordained June 12, 2020, and I am truly humbled and in awe of our Lord’s choice to number me amongst his priests. I serve in the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau, alongside many, many other tireless priests in southern Missouri.
To simply start with my ordination in 2020 misses much of what has made me who I am. I grew up in southeastern Missouri in a small town, and am the oldest of six boys in my family. My first inklings of a priestly vocation began as early as first grade, after encountering Pope John Paul II in his visit to Saint Louis, Missouri. I remember, even as a child in the audience, feeling the palpable holiness of John Paul, even though I was quite far from him in person! Nonetheless, there was a profound zeal and passion, so much so that I was influenced by it, even at that very young age. From that age on, I was convinced that I wanted to be like him- especially as a priest. Though at times my resolve to do that was certainly tested, his influence on me did prevail, and here I am almost twenty years later!
One of John Paul II’s constant mantras, even from the time he was chosen as a successor to Peter was “Be not afraid” or as it renders out in Latin “Noli timere.” This, in no small part, is why I chose to create this website under the domain it has. His life and ministry served as a very simple reminder- if we have faith, we need fear nothing else. My experience in my own life has very much been an experience in this as well! When Christ called me to enter into the seminary, to go through formation, and eventually to be ordained- all of these steps were encouraged by this very simple phrase.
As you go through the humble offerings, pages, and reflections contained within this website, please be assured of my prayers for you, and no matter who you are or where you go- always be mindful of this simple phrase: “Noli timere.” Be not afraid!
Required Disclaimer: The views expressed on this blog are mine alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of my Diocese, the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau.
With that said, as I remain mindful of policy requirements and the necessity of a spirit of prudence, I make every effort to remain synchronized, whether in direct statement or indirect implication, with the theology and tradition of the Catholic Church in every way that I can, to the best of my ability.
May God Bless you!