By Christi Baron

Forum Editor

From Forest to Faith: Father Ed White’s Journey

Since arriving in Forks last August, Father Ed White has quickly become a spiritual presence in the community, bringing with him a deep well of faith, humility, and a unique path to the priesthood.

Born and raised in Montana, Father Ed’s journey to becoming a Catholic priest wasn’t planned. “I took a roundabout path,” he shared. Originally raised Episcopalian, he found himself drawn more deeply into his faith during his school years through the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), a group that connects sports with spiritual growth. “It saved me from a lot of things,” he reflected. “I wanted to go deeper. I asked, ‘What does God have to do with this athletic talent?’”

At age 22, he converted to Catholicism—a decision that surprised his family. “My father was a little upset at first, but all was good later,” Father Ed said. Having originally come to the Seattle area to study forestry, he found his heart drawn into ministry. “The priesthood kept taunting me,” he admitted. “I never felt peace. The Lord wanted something else from me.”

He eventually followed that persistent call, attending seminary in Chicago and being ordained in 2005. “I had worked as a layperson, dated some very nice women, but God probably spared a woman,” he joked. “This is the life I was meant for.” After a year in Tacoma, Fr Ed was assigned to St. Stephen the Martyr in Renton for 18 yrs.

Now serving a three-year assignment in Forks under the direction of the Archbishop, Father Ed leads sacraments, Mass, baptisms, and provides pastoral care to the homebound in the area. Despite the demanding schedule, he says he loves every minute of it. “Some might not see this assignment as a blessing, but I love it here. I hope I get to stay longer—maybe even retire here.”

Father Ed is taken by the natural beauty of the region and finds solace in its solitude. “The wildlife, the quiet—it’s conducive to prayer. It strengthens my faith,” he said. He enjoys gardening, reading, and is excited to explore the Hoh Rain Forest. “I used to fish, and I love going to the beach when I get the chance.”

Last October, some may remember the Eucharistic Miracle Exhibit at St. Anne, which featured work collected by Carlo Acutis, a 15-year-old Italian teenager on the path to sainthood. In April Father Ed had traveled to Italy for Carlo’s canonization but while preparing to fly there Pope Francis died and the ceremony was postponed. “I was invited to the Pope’s funeral but had the opportunity to stay in a beautiful 1,000-year-old church in the Italian countryside,” he recalled. “I could be in a sea of people at the funeral or alone in the quiet to read and pray—it was a gift.”

The recent selection of the first American Pope came as a shock. “The new Pope was a real surprise,” Father Ed said, “A historic moment.”

As he settles deeper into the rhythm of life in Forks, Father Ed is struck by the community’s strong faith and resilient spirit. “There is a deep-rooted faith here—strong, self-sufficient people, and a strong Spanish-speaking community. But there is still work to do,” he said. “Forks has suffered some and needs healing.”

He hopes to be part of that healing and growth, welcoming anyone who may feel lost or unsure about returning to the Church. “Whether you want to explore or return, all are welcome here,” Father Ed said.

As a parting thought, Father Ed shared a favorite quote from St. Thomas Aquinas: “Grace builds on nature.” A reminder that God works through who we are to shape us into who we’re meant to become.