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 Gregory Spencer
Pastor, Annunciation Church, Havelock

Who is your favorite saint(s)?

There are three: St. Anselm, who lived in the 11^th century and was Archbishop of Canterbury. His explanation of faith in God through reasoning helps me better understand my faith; St Benedict, who helps me focus on my faith; and St. Cecilia, for her courage in the face of persecution and singing her way to heaven - to help me live my faith. (I call all three of them my ABC’s)

What was your most memorable spiritual pilgrimage?

My trip to Rome in the Year of St. Paul (2008-09), in which I received an indulgence for making the pilgrimage.

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

Besides my parents, those who influenced me were the priests who helped shape my Catholic education and faith; my pastor when I was in grade school, the Jesuits in high school and college and the Benedictines in the seminary.

Do you have a hobby or hobbies or leisure activity?

I have lots of hobbies including building wooden sailing ship models, being a car mechanic and star-gazing.

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

Sushi or any seafood dish. I get by cooking for myself but it’s nothing to rave about.

Favorite sport? Favorite team? College and/or professional?

Indy racing (not NASCAR!) or Formula 1 racing (I love fast cars!)

Favorite author and/or book?

Besides Bible stories, I like any pirate stories

Music you enjoy /artist?

I enjoy mostly baroque music- (eg. Albinoni, Telemann, Vivaldi who was known as “the Red Priest” because he had red hair.) I also listen to classics.

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

I enjoy the study of astronomy and I can name any make of American car built between 1900 and the 1970’s.