This year marks a profound milestone in the life and ministry of Father Chris Fraser as he celebrates 25 years of priestly ordination. A devoted servant of Christ, Father Fraser’s vocation has been shaped by a steady commitment to the Church, a deep love for the sacraments, and a lifelong dedication to guiding souls toward truth, healing, and communion with God.
A native of West Palm Beach, Florida, Father Fraser moved with his family to Phoenix, Arizona in 1982. He was formed in the Catholic faith through Catholic schooling and later attended Arizona State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business in 1994. Following his undergraduate studies, he worked full-time for the Arizona State University College of Law for two years before responding to a deeper calling: in 1996, he entered seminary for the Diocese of Phoenix to begin formation for the priesthood.
Father Fraser completed his seminary studies and was ordained to the priesthood on June 2, 2001. His early pastoral assignments included serving as Parochial Vicar at SS. Simon and Jude Cathedral for two years, followed by service at St. Andrew the Apostle Parish for one year. These early years of ministry allowed him to accompany parishioners in their daily lives, administering the sacraments and offering pastoral care grounded in compassion and fidelity to the Church.
Seeking to deepen his understanding of the Church’s law and governance, Father Fraser pursued advanced studies at The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. There, he earned a Licentiate in Canon Law (JCL) in 2006. His academic formation prepared him for a unique and vital role in the life of the Diocese.
In 2007, Father Fraser was appointed Adjutant Judicial Vicar of the Diocese of Phoenix, and in 2008 he was named Judicial Vicar, a position he continues to hold today. In this role, he serves the diocese with wisdom and integrity, helping to uphold justice within the life of the Church while ensuring that pastoral care remains at the heart of canonical processes. In addition to his diocesan responsibilities, he continues to assist at various parishes throughout the weekends, remaining close to the sacramental life of the faithful.
Beyond his official duties, Father Fraser serves as Spiritual Director of Kolbe Mission, where his priestly ministry takes on a deeply personal and transformative dimension. In this role, he accompanies individuals who are often walking the difficult path of addiction recovery, incarceration, and spiritual renewal. His guidance brings the wisdom of the Church, the healing power of the sacraments, and the steady presence of a shepherd who is unafraid to walk with those on the margins.
At Kolbe Mission, Father Fraser’s vocation is lived out in a particularly profound way. Guiding those at the mission who are meeting men in their moments of brokenness and reminding them of their dignity as beloved children of God. His decades of priestly service, both in the courtroom of canon law and in the pastoral field of human suffering, converge in this mission of mercy.
As he celebrates 25 years of faithful priesthood, Father Chris Fraser stands as a witness to the enduring power of God’s call. His life reflects a priesthood rooted in truth, shaped by justice, and fulfilled in mercy. For Kolbe Mission and all who have been touched by his ministry, this jubilee is not only a celebration of years served, but of countless lives quietly and faithfully guided back toward Christ.