Hello! I’m John Lee Wagas, a first-generation Filipino-American from the Bay Area in Northern California exploring the intersection of faith, nerdiness, and queerness through ministry, community, dialogue, crafts, and whimsy.

Experience

Postulant for Holy Orders (Priesthood)

Episcopal Diocese of California, San Francisco Bay Area

December 2024 – Present

Formation for priestly ministry, known as the sacrament of Holy Orders, in the Episcopal Church.

Social Media and Newsletter Manager

St. James’ Episcopal Church, Fremont CA

March 2022 – July 2026

Managed parish presence on Instagram and Facebook by designing and scheduling weekly posts, responding to messages, and advertising events. Edited the monthly newsletter and facilitated the transition from Microsoft Publisher to Canva.

Volunteer Hospital Chaplain

Washington Hospital and Health, Fremont CA

April 2024 – September 2025

Provided patients, families, and staff with a space in which they can be heard and engage in spiritual practices through in-person visits. Engaged in broadly spiritual and specific religious interactions in a medical setting on a weekly basis.

Behavioral Technician

ACES ABA, Newark and San Jose CA

March 2025 – January 2026

Empower and support youth clients on the Autism Spectrum by engaging in activities focused on positive reinforcement and social/communication skills alongside daily living.Crafted and maintained individualized approaches and schedules.

Education

Bachelor of Arts in Humanities, Concentration in Religious Studies

San José State University, San Jose CA

August 2020 – December 2023

Studied for three years at San José State University in San Jose, a public institution in the California State University system located near the heart of Silicon Valley. I graduated a semester early from a four-year program with honors Magna Cum Laude.

Master of Divinity

Seminary of the Southwest, Austin TX

August 2026 – Present

A three-year master’s program required for priestly formation in the Episcopal Church. Seminary of the Southwest is a residential Episcopal seminary located in central Austin and rooted in the principles of hospitality, conversation, and mutuality.

Interests

Video Games

E

Liturgy and Worship

L

Medieval European History

C