Beloved Oklahoma priest battles brain cancer, inspires congregation

In the face of adversity, the unwavering faith and compassion of a beloved Oklahoma priest have become a source of inspiration for his parishioners. Father Joseph Jacobi, dedicated pastor of Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Mustang, has been diagnosed with glioblastoma: an aggressive and incurable form of brain cancer. Despite his health challenges, Father Jacobi continues to provide comfort and strength to his community during this difficult time. Through prayer, personal reflections, and the support of his congregation, he reminds people that every day is a gift and that God's love is ever-present.

Father Jacobi now finds himself in need of a miracle. In April, he received the news he had glioblastoma. The night before a surgery to attempt to remove the tumor, parishioners at Holy Spirit Catholic Church gathered for a prayer service to support and lift him in prayer.

Deacon Paul Lewis, recalling the moment, described how more than 400 individuals, including current and former parishioners from across the archdiocese, packed the walls of Holy Spirit Catholic Church. Children and adults alike lined up to touch the shoulder of their beloved pastor, who, in his time of need, was being comforted by his congregation.

Addressing the concerned community, Father Jacobi shared the story of his diagnosis. He recounted Palm Sunday morning when he struggled to make sense of the words before him while preparing to celebrate Mass. It was then that he realized the peripheral vision in both eyes was being affected. However, Father Jacobi emphasizes that the story is not about his vision or the tumor. Instead, he focuses on the boundless love of God that accompanies everyone through all the trials of life.

During this challenging period, Father Jacobi says he has experienced the profound love of the Father for the Son and the power of the Holy Spirit. He has found deep peace and joy from the support and prayers of his community. Through his unwavering faith, he reaffirms his desire to do God's will and trust that God will bring forth good from this difficult journey. He acknowledges the abundant blessings from this experience, bringing his congregation closer to the source of true healing, peace and everlasting joy.

“Father Jacobi has been a good shepherd leading and accompanying his parishioners for many years through all of life’s situations and circumstances. Now it’s our opportunity to accompany and support him by our prayers and encouragement,” Archbishop Paul Coakley said. 

Ray and Irene Haefele said Father Jacobi's impact extends beyond his parish, as he has been an instrumental spiritual advisor for the English Cursillo Movement in the archdiocese for more than a decade. They say his commitment to living a Christ-centered life has inspired and guided many in their search for holiness. Father Jacobi's talks and meditations during the Cursillo weekends have been a highlight for attendees, touching their hearts and deepening their faith.

Father Rex Arnold said Father Joe, as some call him, is known for his strong convictions for social justice and his passion for ministry to the Hispanic community. He said his selflessness is evident in his actions, whether fasting for the safe return of a soldier, visiting his mother in memory care or praying for individuals during their struggles.

Chris and Marie Engle spoke of his joyful nature and the deep impact he has had on their lives. 

“He is truly beloved by people from every parish he has ministered to, his friends, and his family. He has helped us and buoyed us, and now we get the privilege of carrying him,” Engle said.

Father Scott Boeckman, pastor of Saint James the Greater Catholic Church in Oklahoma City, said Father Jacobi is a “rock” built on a solid family foundation, which he has based his entire life. “The one attribute that binds all [his other attributes] together is his tender heart,” Father Boeckman said. 

Janie Shiek, a Holy Spirit Catholic Church parishioner, said she has witnessed the love of God shine through him to so many, including herself. 

“Whether it be his intense competitive side or his strong convictions for the justice and dignity of people, he is not afraid to allow his voice to be heard,” Shiek said. “He truly has a shepherd’s heart.” 

Father Jacobi had built a repuation for his ability to build churches, form committees or lead capital campaigns where needed. 

Denis Rischard, friend of Father Jacobi, said Father Jacobi not only builds churches but also builds the Body of Christ wherever he goes. He says Father Jacobi is a “virtuous man whose kind and loving manner embodies what it means to be a priest of Jesus Christ.”

Throughout this part of his “Camino,” or journey, Father Jacobi has maintained his sense of humor. 

“He reminds me of Jesus,” said friend and parishioner Gerald Goodall, “where the rubber meets the road for sinners like me. He’s changed my life.” 

Eliana Tedrow is a freelance writer for the Sooner Catholic.

Photo: (above) Fr. Joseph Jacobi at Bl. Stanley Rother’s Beatification Mass on Sept. 23, 2017, in Oklahoma City. Photo Eliana Tedrow/Sooner Catholic. 

 


Parishioners at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Mustang pray for Fr. Joseph Jacobi before his brain surgery. Photo provided.