Father Clifford Smith, Holy Family Chapel at St. Joseph Village

Ordained for the Diocese of Dallas, priest and chaplain Father Clifford “Cliff” Smith, devoted more than two decades to ministry before retiring at age 70 and moving to St. Joseph Village (SJV) in 2019. For about six months, he served as the only priest at Holy Family Chapel, SJV’s on-site chapel, providing spiritual leadership and pastoral care to residents.

Father Cliff’s journey to priesthood began in 1987 after speaking with two Catholic Monsignors in the Diocese of Dallas. In 1990, he attended Holy Trinity and became ordained as a priest in 1996.

“I was raised as Catholic and believe in it wholeheartedly. It is the foundation for the life I live. My faith began with baptism and continues now,” said Father Cliff.

Today, he shares his chapter of retirement with other retired priests from the Diocese of Dallas, as well as one from the Diocese of Beaumont, creating a small but supportive faith community.

As a chaplain, Father Cliff helps residents through life transitions by celebrating the sacraments and teaching the Bible and Catholic theology weekly.

Holy Family Chapel is open 24 hours a day and welcomes residents seeking a quiet place for prayer and reflection.

The chapel offers daily Catholic Mass and a weekly Protestant service. The space is also designed to accommodate those who are mobility challenged.

“The Catholic faith is founded with the love and care of Jesus Christ. It is about loving God and loving your neighbor,” shared Father Cliff.

The chapel also serves as a place of new beginnings, as individuals often choose to enter the Catholic faith later in life and receive baptism there, underscoring its role as a welcoming space for renewal and faith.

Father Cliff’s presence at St. Joseph Village reflects a lifelong commitment to faith and community that continues to inspire residents.

By Sarah Macias