Father Patrick Kerst, was ordained to the priesthood on May 23, 1990. Since that time, he has served the Diocese of Spokane in many capacities. He has been associate pastor of St. Patrick Parish, Pasco; pastor of St. Patrick and St. Francis of Assisi parishes in Walla Walla; pastor of the parishes in Brewster and Twisp; pastor of St. Mary Parish in Spokane Valley; pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Rockford; and director of continuing education for priests for the Diocese of Spokane.  In 2014, he served as vicar general for external matters.

He currently serves as pastor of St. Thomas More Parish in north Spokane as well as Vicar for Priests.