Brian J. Taber, SJ, 34, is a native of Davenport, Iowa, where his family attended St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church. After graduating from Assumption High School, Taber earned a bachelor’s degree in classical/Near Eastern civilizations at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska, where he first met the Jesuits. As a student, he was active in a Jesuit discernment group and went on a “Six Weeks a Jesuit” trip during his sophomore year. After graduation, Taber worked for a year while continuing to discern his vocation, entering the Society in 2006. As a novice, he taught at St. Louis University High School and then earned a master’s degree in philosophy at Saint Louis University in 2011. Next, Taber was missioned to Marquette University High School in Milwaukee, where he taught history, was an assistant coach for the freshman football team and was the moderator of the student newspaper. In 2014, he was missioned to the Boston College School of Theology and Ministry, where he earned a Master of Divinity degree while serving as chaplain of the Boston College men’s basketball team. Ordained a deacon in 2016, Taber served at Our Lady of Grace Parish in Chelsea, Massachusetts, and St. Mary of the Assumption in Revere, Massachusetts. Highlights of his Jesuit formation include summers traveling, studying and working in India, Rome and Spain and homeless outreach through Saint Louis University. He was also involved in the Hearts on Fire mission band for the Apostleship of Prayer. After ordination, Fr. Taber will be teaching, serving as sports chaplain, and coaching at Saint Ignatius College Prep in Chicago, as well as helping at Saint Giles Catholic Parish in Oak Park, Illinois. He will celebrate first Masses at Three Holy Companions Chapel at Marquette University High School and at Christ the King Parish in Des Moines, Iowa.