The Reverend Mr. Bechtel was born on May 26, 1978 and is from Pottsville PA.  He graduated from the Nativity B.V.M High School in 1996 then entered seminary formation at St Pius X / University of Scranton with the goal of fulfilling God's call to become a priest. In 2000 he graduated from the University of Scranton/ St Pius X Seminary and was assigned by the Diocese of Scranton to continue studies for the priesthood at St Mary's Seminary and University in Maryland. In 2003 he took a leave from seminary for two years to discern further God's call.  During the time period 2003-2005, Rev. Mr. Bechtel worked at the Susquehanna Health System in Williamsport PA. in the capacity of chaplain and at the same time did a CPE program to become certified as a chaplain for hospital ministry. At the completion of the program (2005) Rev. Mr. Bechtel decided to once again pursue studies for the priesthood.  After being accepted into formation by the Most Rev. Joseph Martino, current bishop of Scranton, he was assigned to St Charles Borremeo Seminary in Philadelphia to complete seminary formation. In May of 2007 he completed his studies at St Charles, and began ministry at St Mary of the Mount Parish in June of 2007.

Ordained on 27 June 2008 in Scranton, PA at St Peter's Cathedral.

The Rev. Mr. Bechtel holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Scranton in Liberal Studies, a Masters of Arts in Theology from St Mary's Seminary and University, and a Masters of Divinity from St Charles Borremeo Seminary.  He is also certified as a Chaplain for health care ministry.

Former Assignments:

St Pius X Seminary/ University of Scranton (1996-2000)

St Mary's Seminary and University (2000-2003)

St Ignatius Parish Hickory MD (2002-2003)

Leave from Seminary (2003-2005)

St. Charles Borremeo Seminary (2005-2007)

St. Martin Deporres ParishPhiladelphia PA (2005-2006)

St Bede the Venerable Parish Holland PA (2006-2007)

St. Mary of the Mount Parish, Mount Pocono, PA (2007-2008)