Father Farnan graduated from Rockhurst College, Kansas City, in 1981 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Secondary Education. He received a Master of Divinity degree from The University of Saint Mary of the Lake—Mundelein Seminary, Chicago, and a Master of Christian Spirituality degree from Creighton University, Omaha. He was ordained to the priesthood on June 13, 1987, for the Diocese of Kansas City-Saint Joseph.

He served as parochial vicar at Visitation Parish (1987-92), pastor of Saint Therese Little Flower and Saint Louis Parishes (1992-2001), Saint John Lalande (2001-2006), and Saint Thomas More (2006-2016). He also served in diocesan positions: Director of Vocations (1991-96), Director of Priest Personnel (2005-2013), and the College of Consultors (2004-2014).

In the mid-90s, he established The Upper Room, a nondenominational inner-city literacy program for youth and their families. He previously served on the board of directors for numerous educational and service institutions in and around the Kansas City area. His writings include At the Crossroads of Hope: A priest’s inner (city) journey, This Bold Prayer: A collection of spiritual essays, and A Parish for All Seasons: A year in the life of Saint Thomas More School.

In the mid-90s, I established The Upper Room, a nondenominational inner-city literacy program for youth and their families. I previously served on the board of directors for numerous educational and service institutions in and around Kansas City. My writings include At the Crossroads of Hope: A Priest’s Inner (city) Journey, This Bold Prayer: A Collection of Spiritual Essays, and A Parish for All Seasons: A Year in the Life of Saint Thomas More School.