Faith for the journey · A diocesan ministry
A place to be heard.
A companion on the road.
Rooted in Catholic faith and motorcycle fellowship, with room for a much wider community. Come with your faith, your questions, and your own story.
Riders and non-riders are welcome.
Who we are
St. Columbanus Ministries is the Catholic outreach ministry associated with Fr. Mark Schmidt, within the Diocese of Sts. Joseph & George.
Its public story began with a Catholic motorcycle ministry. That experience is still part of its identity, while the invitation reaches beyond people who ride. You do not need a motorcycle, a church résumé, or all the answers to begin a conversation.
Mark’s approach starts with the human being in front of him. He makes room for people carrying doubt, skepticism, anger, or painful experiences of church, as well as those who simply want companionship on their spiritual journey.
Faith can be explored honestly and at a human pace. Sometimes the next step is as ordinary as sitting down with coffee or tea and taking time to listen.
From the road to a wider community
Motorcycling is part of Mark’s everyday life. His motorcycle belongs on the same list as family, books, coffee, friendship, and a sense of humor. Among riders, he may simply be “Chappy,” “Chaplain,” or Mark.
During his twenty years in the U.S. Army, Mark spent a year as a chaplain’s assistant. He remembers people of many beliefs having real needs, and the work of helping them find their way.
The name St. Columbanus Ministries reflects a broader welcome. The road remains an important part of the story; the community also has room for people whose journeys take other forms.
However you arrived, there is room for your story.
Ministry in everyday life
Conversation, sacramental moments, and shared reflection give this ministry a human face.
Conversation & companionship
Mark’s instinct is to listen to understand. An honest question, a difficult experience, or a desire to reconnect with faith can all be a starting point. There is no need to arrive with a polished story.
Worship & life’s milestones
The ministry’s public posts include Mark’s first Mass after ordination and a wedding he officiated. These are glimpses of faith shared in community and alongside people at meaningful moments in their lives.
Ask Mark about your next stepCatholic reflection
The ministry also shares reflections on saints, prayer, and the life of the Church. Its public material includes the biblical archangels and a reflection on compassion, family, and service for Father’s Day.
Notes from the road
New posts from Mark’s public blog appear here automatically.
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Why St. Columbanus?
Irish monk.
Missionary.
Traveler.
St. Columbanus, also known as Columban, was an Irish missionary monk who traveled through Western Europe around the turn of the seventh century. His journey took him from Ireland to communities in what are now France, Switzerland, and Italy.
He is widely recognized as a patron of motorcyclists, a connection inspired by his extensive travels. For this ministry, his story also offers a wider image: going outward, crossing boundaries, and carrying faith beyond familiar places.
A name for the road—and for every journey toward faith and friendship.
A ministry within a wider family
St. Columbanus Ministries brings Mark’s particular gifts, experience, and conversational approach into a wider diocesan community.
Its own name and motorcycle heritage belong alongside the Diocese of Sts. Joseph & George’s commitment to dignity and belonging. People matter, and there is room for many different paths.
“The people are the heart and soul of the Church.”— Mark Schmidt, from his diocesan profileExplore our diocesan community
Meet Fr. Mark
Rev. Mark Schmidt, Th.D.
Priest · Theologian · Retired U.S. Army veteran
Twenty years in the Army, family life, doctoral study in theology, and a long, unconventional path to priesthood have shaped the way Mark listens. His journey included years away from organized religion while faith itself remained.
He holds titles lightly and sees theology as a useful tool for a person’s spiritual journey. Family, motorcycles, books, a good cup of coffee, and friends keep that journey grounded.
Read Mark’s full storyBegin a conversation
Ask a question, introduce yourself, or talk with Mark about ministry and participation. Riders and non-riders, people of settled faith and people still finding their way: you are welcome.