Get to know U.S. Province formation candidate Tim Truster

Many members of the Precious Blood family may be meeting Tim Truster for the first time, but his path to formation reflects a long journey of faith, study, and service. Tim grew up in Hamilton, Ohio,  where he was formed by Catholic schools, parish life, and parents who emphasized service to others. From an early age, he balanced faith, friendships, and a strong commitment to learning, in particular, the fields of math and science. 

That interest led him to the University of Dayton, where he studied civil engineering, and later to graduate work at the University of Illinois. Over the next several years, Tim built a successful academic career, eventually spending twelve years as a civil engineering professor at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. Along the way, he remained active in the Church, joining the Knights of Columbus and seeking out Catholic community, particularly in settings where being Catholic required intentional commitment. 

In January 2024, Tim began working with a spiritual director and considering his future. By the end of spring semester, he had reached a state of receptiveness, one that prepared him for what happened during vigil Mass at Pentecost. When the priest elevated the Eucharist and said, “Behold the lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world,” Tim had an interior vision, seeing himself in the role of the priest. He was able to see clearly the direction God was asking him to follow.  

Following a period of careful discernment with dioceses and religious communities, Tim was introduced to the Missionaries of the Precious Blood through a trusted friend. Conversations with Precious Blood members, including Fr. Angelo Anthony, helped him recognize this as the next step in responding to God’s call. 

Now in formation, Tim brings with him a thoughtful, analytical mind, a spirit of service, and gratitude for a welcoming community. At age 40, he is beginning a new phase of higher education, while still providing remote advising to the graduate students he had committed to. As he continues this journey, he looks forward to growing alongside his brothers while offering his gifts in service of the Church and the charism of the Precious Blood. 

A favorite Scripture passage of Tim’s, who says, “I love how the disciples seek Jesus and he invites them simply to come and see,” is John 1:38-39:

“And Jesus turned and saw them following, and said to them, ‘What are you seeking?’ They said to Him, ‘Rabbi (which translated means Teacher), where are You staying?’ He said to them, ‘Come, and you will see.’ So they came and saw where He was staying, and they stayed with Him that day; it was about the tenth hour.” (John 1:38-39).