During this Year for Priests, the Diocese of Raleigh is presenting a “Did You Know” feature of Priests serving in the Diocese. As new profiles are added, such as the one below, the previous ones will be available on the Year for Priests page.

Father Mark J. Betti
Pastor of Saint Bernadette Parish in Fuquay-Varina

Who is your favorite saint?

Saint Maria Goretti, who was the first saint I learned about. I was impressed with her courage in remaining chaste and faithful to the end in the face of danger.

What was your most memorable spiritual pilgrimage?

My visit to the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls in Rome during the Year of St. Paul. I was in the basilica for four hours and had a profound experience.

Who was the greatest influence on your vocation as a priest and why?

My parents. They provided me with the love and stability necessary for me to rise above daily needs and concerns in order to contemplate The Call.

Do you have a hobby or hobbies or leisure activity?

I enjoy attending sporting events, the performing arts and art museums. I am as "at home" at the NC Museum of Art as at the RBC Center.

What is your favorite food? Do you cook it yourself?

Ribeye steak (well done), twice baked potato and garden peas. I will start with a salad and finish with something chocolate. I can prepare it myself.

Do you have a favorite sport?

Hockey. My favorite team is the Carolina Hurricanes.

Favorite author and/or book?

St. Augustine's Confessions and George Orwell's 1984

Favorite movie?

Titanic and Mulan

Music you enjoy/artist?

Classic Rock and Country

Any interesting fact that your parishioners would be interested in knowing?

I used to be in pretty good physical condition from running and lifting weights six days per week. I can't run anymore because my knees are shot. That is why I don't genuflect in church as much as I should. I used to be able to bench my weight, but I tore up both shoulders. Also, I can say Mass and celebrate the sacraments in five languages: English, Spanish, French, Italian and Latin.