About Don Fischer

The Life and Ministry of Msgr. Don Fischer

Dallas-based, Heaven-focused.

Msgr. Don Fischer has served as a Catholic priest in the Diocese of Dallas for over 58 years. Upon retiring at age 70, he founded Pastoral Reflections Institute as a way to continue sharing his message of hope, healing, and spiritual awakening—extending his ministry through radio and digital media to reach hearts far beyond the walls of a parish.

His life and ministry bridge the transformative spirit of Vatican II with today’s growing hunger for authentic spiritual consciousness. At 85, he remains vibrantly engaged in guiding others toward the divine presence within—offering wisdom that is both deeply rooted in Catholic tradition and courageously open to the mystery of the present moment.

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For over five decades, Msgr. Don has devoted himself to helping people move beyond fear, shame, and anger into a fuller experience of God’s love. He speaks of Jesus not as a distant judge but as an indwelling guide and companion—one whose presence lives in each of us. His reflections are not bound by rigid dogma but fueled by a passion for awakening hearts to the living Spirit.

Inspired by voices like Paul Selig and the contemplative wisdom of the mystics, Msgr. Don explores the places where theology and human experience meet. He welcomes deep questions, honors the mystery, and finds hope in unexpected places—from quantum physics to the unfolding story of the Church.

Above all, Msgr. Don is a priest of the present moment—a truth-teller, a bridge-builder, and a contemplative firebrand. He believes the Church will be reborn not by decree, but through the Spirit rising in the hearts of the faithful, especially the laity. Through his ministry with Pastoral Reflections Institute, he invites each of us to awaken to the power of God’s love—greater than any force that would keep us small.

Early Life & Formation

1940
Don Fischer is born
1958
Graduates from Richardson High School
Fall 1960
Begins Seminary Studies
1963
Transfers to St. John’s Home Missionary Seminary
1962-1965
Second Vatican Council

Ordination & Early Priesthood

1967
Ordained a Priest
1967-1969
Associate Pastor at St. Thomas Aquinas
1969-1973
Parochial Vicar at St. Monica’s

Leadership & Liturgical Innovation

1973-1980
Director of Vocations, Diocese of Dallas
1973-1986
Chaplain at the University of Dallas
1973-1993
Chairman, Sub-Commission of Sacred Places

Parish Leadership & Broader Outreach

1986-1995
Pastor at St. Bernard of Clairvaux
1991-1995
Executive Board Member, AIDS Arms
1987-2023
Sunday Homily Broadcast on WRR Radio
1995-2010
Pastor at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church

Pastoral Reflections Institute Was Born

2009
Founds Pastoral Reflections Institute (PRI)
2010
Retires from Parish Ministry
Present Day
Ongoing Ministry through PRI
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