To See the Face of God

Father Scott Seethaler's journey to the priesthood began almost by chance. When he was fourteen, a knock on the classroom door and a brief conversation in the hallway launched him onto a spiritual journey that ultimately impacted more than a million people throughout the world.

Father Scott is a Capuchin Franciscan priest whose religious life is defined by the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. His preaching career spanned the world. Blessed with a tireless work ethic, he also wrote extensively, produced an award-winning radio program, hosted retreats for religious and non-religious people alike, and provided spiritual direction to individuals. And he did it all with humility and a characteristic sense of humor.

At the age of fifty-five years, at a stage in life when most people are slowing down, Father Scott embarked on perhaps his most important ministry: the founding of a hospital in Oaxaca, Mexico, dedicated to serving the medical needs of the poor. Against all odds, the hospital has flourished, and it continues to provide state-of-the-art medical care at a significantly reduced cost to more than 1,200 patients per month. 

This biography is based on the author's lifelong friendship with Father Scott and interviews conducted over a two-year period at the St. Augustine Friary in Pittsburgh, Pa. In vivid detail, it recounts the tragedies and triumphs of his life, including the adversity that Father Scott overcame: the physical pain inflicted by fibromyalgia and arthritis, the loss of his parents, and a crisis of faith. Through it all, Father Scott remained steadfastly committed to serving the poor, following in the footsteps of the founder of the Franciscan Capuchin Order, Saint Francis of Assisi.