Very Rev. Richard Stansberry

Growing up, Fr. Rick attended Casady School in Oklahoma City. At the age of 16, he became Catholic at Christ the King Catholic Church, where he became a devoted member.
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Fr. Rick's academic pursuits led him to Southern Methodist University, where he graduated in 1983 with a Bachelor's degree in Accounting. He furthered his education at Oklahoma City University, earning a Master's degree in Accounting in 1984. For three years, he exercised his expertise as an accountant before pursuing his calling to the priesthood, enrolling at St. Meinrad Seminary in Indiana. There, he achieved a Master's Degree in Divinity and a Master's Degree in Religious Studies, graduating with distinction. His ordination to the priesthood in 1992 marked the beginning of his dedicated priestly ministry.

Fr. Rick's early pastoral work brought him to St. Charles Borromeo in Oklahoma City in 1992, where he served for five years, touching the lives of countless parishioners. In 1997 he was asked to further his education at the Pontifical University of St. Thomas in Rome, where he pursued a Licentiate of Canon Law, deepening his understanding of Church law and governance.

From 2000 to 2002, he was pastor at Sts. Peter and Paul Parish in Kingfisher. In 2002, he became pastor of St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Oklahoma City. Fr. Rick served as pastor of Christ the King Catholic Church from 2007 to 2021 simultaneously, he served as Judicial Vicar for the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. In July of 2021, Fr. Rick Stansberry was appointed as the Rector of the Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help where he continues to serve.  

Fr. Rick has also served on the Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School Board for 14 years, Mount St. Mary Board for 6 years, Cristo Rey for 5 years, Catholic Charities for 6 years and was the Co-chair of the One Church Many Disciples campaign.  In 2010, he was awarded the NCEA Distinguished Pastor Award. His extensive experience, theological expertise, and pastoral care continue to enrich the spiritual lives of those he serves.

Fr. Rick's life journey is a testament to his deep faith, commitment to Catholic education, and tireless service to the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. His leadership and compassionate spirit inspire all who have the privilege of knowing him.