What's not to love about a priest who's also a Catholic Techie? No one who knows him (or probably people who know of him) will be surprised to see Father Jay Finelli, the iPadre, being interviewed today.

Father Jay's work began many years ago, when he was a cutie patootie:

Many years later, he's still passionate about both trains and Catholicism. You can find him leading pilgrimages, live streaming, and connecting people. He also hangs out with sisters and a saint or two.

In addition to the wonderful work he has been doing as the iPadre, which has included blogging and podcasting since 2005, he's also involved with a number of other websites and pursuits.

Did I mention that he's the pastor at a large church in Rhode Island? He's also one of the most sincere and delightful people I've ever had the blessing to meet in person, and I look forward to the day I get to see him again!

Tell us about yourself in five words or less.

Passionate for the Catholic Church.

Of your pursuits, what's your favorite?

Offering the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.

When you think of the New Evangelization from your approach as a "Catholic Techie," what excites you? What makes you want to continue?

I can reach anyone, anywhere, any time. There is no limit to who I can reach. I take the words of St. Paul: "I have a compulsion to preach the Gospel." I can't help myself.

What's the most rewarding aspect of your work?

Hearing of people who have returned to the Church & the Sacraments.

In your spare time, what are we likely to find you doing? Do you have a gadget in hand or do you go native and screenless?

Usually in my workshop, working on my trains or outside running them:

[View embedded video here.]

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Copyright 2012 Sarah Reinhard