Pittsburgh: Erik L. Pintar once had a successful career in the technology world, working at Google after completing an impressive education in engineering and computer science. He had the kind of professional life many young people dream of, with good opportunities, financial security and a promising future. But deep within him, another calling was growing stronger. Years later, Pintar has left behind his career in technology and entered a very different life, becoming a Catholic priest dedicated to serving God and people.
Pintar was ordained to the Catholic priesthood on June 27, 2026, at Saint Paul Cathedral in Pittsburgh. He was among five men ordained as priests for the Diocese of Pittsburgh. Bishop Mark A. Eckman presided over the ordination ceremony, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Pintar’s remarkable journey from the technology industry to the altar.
His story has attracted attention not only because of his former career at Google, but also because he is Deaf. His journey shows how a person can overcome challenges, follow a deep sense of purpose and use personal experiences to serve others.
Before beginning his journey towards priesthood, Pintar studied at Carnegie Mellon University. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical and computer engineering. He also completed an additional major in human computer interaction and a minor in computer science. His strong academic background opened the door to a successful career in one of the world’s biggest technology companies.
After completing his studies, Pintar joined Google. His work placed him in a competitive and fast moving professional environment. However, success in the technology sector did not stop him from thinking seriously about his faith and the direction of his life. Over time, the call to priesthood became stronger.
In 2019, Pintar took a major step by entering priestly formation with the Diocese of Pittsburgh. It was not a quick decision or a sudden change. His preparation for priesthood lasted several years and included academic studies, spiritual formation, community life and pastoral experience.
During his formation, Pintar studied through Saint Paul Seminary, Franciscan University of Steubenville and Saint Vincent Seminary. These years prepared him for the responsibilities of priestly ministry and gave him opportunities to work with different communities.
On June 7, 2025, Pintar was ordained a deacon. The ordination brought him closer to the priesthood and allowed him to take on greater responsibilities in the Church. After completing the final stage of his formation, he was ordained a priest in June 2026.
His new ministry will also have a special connection with the Deaf Catholic community. According to official information from the Diocese of Pittsburgh, Pintar is scheduled to begin serving as parochial vicar at Corpus Christi Parish from July 13, 2026. He will also serve part time as a co chaplain to the Deaf community in Pittsburgh.
This responsibility gives his priestly ministry a deeply personal meaning. As a Deaf priest, Pintar understands many of the communication difficulties and other challenges experienced by Deaf Catholics. His presence in the Church could help more Deaf people feel welcomed, understood and included in parish life.
Reports about his ordination have also described Pintar as one of a very small number of Deaf Catholic priests in the history of the United States. His journey has therefore become an inspiring story for many people, particularly those in the Deaf community and those considering a religious vocation.
However, Pintar’s story is not simply about leaving a successful job for a religious life. It is a journey that took years of reflection, preparation and commitment. From university classrooms and the offices of Google to seminaries, parish communities and finally the priesthood, each stage has shaped the path he follows today.
For many people, success is measured by salary, professional position and material comfort. Pintar’s life offers a different view. His decision shows that personal fulfilment can also come from faith, service and responding to a calling that may lead in an unexpected direction.
As Father Erik L. Pintar begins his priestly ministry, his journey continues. The former Google professional now enters a life centred on celebrating the sacraments, serving parish communities and supporting Deaf Catholics. His path from technology to priesthood is a powerful reminder that sometimes the biggest changes in life begin with the courage to listen to a quiet calling within.