A priest from Brooklyn, New York, Father Gerard Sauer has not only spread the word of God through ministry, but also taught as an adjunct professor in the Department of Theology at St. John’s University since 2006. In his role as a professor and priest, Father Gerard Sauer has taught undergraduate students in theology, coordinated international travel, and organized various groups.
Father Sauer’s responsibilities at the university include working with department leadership on implementing curriculum standards and goals. He chooses course texts, devises outlines for the course, prepares and grades student work, and participates in adjunct faculty meetings.
Outside of the university, Father Sauer has coordinated international faith-based pilgrimages to the Holy Land (Israel and Jordan), St. Peter’s, Vatican City, Florence, Assisi, and Piemonte. Other pilgrimages he has organized have included Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, Ireland, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Canada, Portugal, the Philippines, and Panama. He has participated in the International Eucharistic Congress in 2008, 2012, and 2016, the World Meeting of Families in 2018, and World Youth Day in 2008, 2011, 2013, 2016, and 2019.
His community affiliations include memberships to the Knights of the Holy Sepulchre and the Cathedral Club of Brooklyn. Father Sauer earned a master’s in theology from the Seminary of the Immaculate Conception.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
A typical day begins with preparation—reviewing lecture notes, engaging with students online or in person, and ensuring that each class fosters meaningful dialogue. Productivity comes from structure: setting clear goals for teaching, grading, and curriculum development, while leaving space for reflection and prayer. That balance keeps me focused and grounded.
How do you bring ideas to life?
Ideas come alive through collaboration and planning. Whether developing a new course or organizing a faith-based event, I start by listening—understanding the needs of students or participants—and then build a framework that combines tradition with creativity. Execution is key: clear timelines, strong communication, and adaptability.
What’s one trend that excites you?
The growing interest in interfaith dialogue and global pilgrimages excites me. People are seeking deeper meaning and connection across cultures, and technology now allows us to share these experiences widely, fostering unity and understanding.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
Daily reflection and planning. Before starting work, I take time to review priorities and set realistic goals for the day. This habit ensures that I stay focused and intentional, whether I’m preparing lectures or coordinating community initiatives.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Be patient with the process. Growth—whether spiritual, academic, or professional—takes time. Every experience, even the challenging ones, contributes to your development. Trust that perseverance and integrity will open doors.
Tell us something you believe that almost nobody agrees with you on.
I believe that silence is one of the most powerful forms of communication. In a world that values constant dialogue, silence often feels uncomfortable, yet it can foster clarity, empathy, and deeper understanding.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
Practice gratitude daily. Whether through prayer, journaling, or a simple mental note, acknowledging what you’re thankful for shifts perspective and strengthens resilience.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
I pause and step away from the immediate task. Sometimes that means a short walk, other times quiet reflection or prayer. Creating space allows me to return with clarity and renewed energy.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
Building authentic relationships. Whether in academia or ministry, collaboration and trust have opened doors to new opportunities. By investing time in understanding people’s needs and offering support, I’ve been able to create programs, lead pilgrimages, and develop courses that resonate deeply.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
Early in my teaching career, I underestimated the challenges of online learning. My initial approach lacked engagement, and student feedback reflected that. I overcame it by embracing technology, attending workshops, and redesigning my courses for interaction. The lesson: adaptability is essential for growth.
What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?
A platform for virtual pilgrimages. Using immersive technology, people could experience holy sites worldwide without leaving home—ideal for those unable to travel due to health or financial constraints. It combines education, spirituality, and accessibility.
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
Learning management systems like Blackboard or Canvas. They streamline course delivery, grading, and communication with students, allowing me to focus on teaching rather than administrative tasks.
What is the best $100 you recently spent? What and why?
A donation to a local community theater group. Supporting the arts fosters creativity and brings people together, which aligns with my belief in building strong, vibrant communities.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?
The Confessions of St. Augustine. It’s a timeless reflection on faith, humility, and perseverance. Its insights into the human condition remain relevant and inspiring for anyone seeking meaning.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
The Two Popes. It offers a thoughtful portrayal of dialogue, leadership, and reconciliation within the Church. The film reminds us that even in tradition, there’s room for understanding and growth.
Key learnings
- Authentic relationships and collaboration are key to professional and personal growth.
- Adaptability and openness to technology can transform challenges into opportunities.
- Daily habits like reflection and gratitude foster productivity and resilience.
- Global experiences—whether physical or virtual—enrich understanding and build community.
- Service and generosity create lasting impact beyond professional achievements.