Rev. J. Michael Brown, CFS
March 1, 1948 – May 15, 2022
Nutritional Ministry
Fr. Brown was a devoted priest of the National Catholic Church of North America. He is lovingly remembered by his two sons, Jonathan and Timothy, their spouses, one grandchild, and a wide circle of relatives and friends.
Fr. Brown’s journey in ministry began with his ordination to the diaconate on September 29, 1990, by the Rev. Dr. Roger Schleef of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). He was later ordained to the Order of Presbyters on June 19, 2010, by the Most Rev. William Wettingfeld. His ministry spanned over 31 years, during which he faithfully served ELCA congregations in Smithtown, New York, and Orlando, Florida.
In 2014, Fr. Brown succeeded Bishop William R. Cavins as pastor of Holy Angels Catholic Community, continuing his pastoral leadership until the parish merged with St. Francis Catholic Community in St. Cloud, where he served as Assistant Pastor. In March 2020, he joined Bishop Cavins in founding Abiding Presence Faith Community—a name he himself suggested—where he served as Associate Pastor.
Beyond his pastoral work, Fr. Brown was a dedicated educator, teaching high school in New York. He was also a gifted vocalist and choir director, performing as a featured tenor with numerous ensembles, including:
- Holy Cross Glee Club
- PAKS Chamber Ensemble
- Worcester Festival Chorus
- Framingham Choral Society
- Tanglewood Festival Chorus
- Queens College Opera Studio
- Paperback Opera Players
- Columbia University
- Long Island Light Opera Company
- Huntington Choral Society
- Chamber Singers
- Amityville Choral Society
He was honored to have worked with renowned conductors such as Alfred Nash Patterson, Sixten Ehrling, John Oliver, Seiji Ozawa, William Steinberg, and Leonard Bernstein.
Fr. Brown will be remembered at Abiding Presence and by all who knew him as a kind and gentle soul. His homilies were thoughtfully crafted and deeply meaningful, offering listeners insight and inspiration for living a more faithful Christian life.
In his memory, the parish has established the J.M.B. Nutrition Ministry, continuing his legacy of compassion and service.