Fr. Charlie Archer is born and raised in St. Louis. Like the hobbits in the Lord of the Rings, he has a great love both for food and for things that grow. In his free time, you will likely find him out at his brother’s homestead chopping wood, riding a tractor, or starting fires with his young nephews.

He has a love for reading, especially the English Catholic intellectual tradition in the vein of St. JH Newman, GK Chesterton, and JRR Tolkien. Other loves include frisbee golf, preaching, the inner healing prayer of Dr. Bob Schuchts, and of course the Eucharist above all!

He has been leading Salt+Light since September of 2023, serves at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis, and is beginning further studies in the art of preaching.

You will find him at many Salt+Light events, especially the Cathedral’s weekly Thursday evening Anima Christi holy hour, dinner, and social.

Fr. Charles Samson is among the coolest priests in the Archdiocese of St. Louis, but in a nerdy way. He is the scripture professor at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary, with a working knowledge of 9+ languages! His bookish inclination has led to an extensive knowledge of obscure facts about Star Wars, the Lord of the Rings, complicated boardgames, and ornithology (the study of birds and their habits). He loves being quizzed on apparent contradictions in the scriptures.

He lives with a deep passion for the truth and has been a shepherd for the young adult community for many years. He leads the monthly Mass & Hike on the Trail and is also present at many other events.

Fr. Samson is the one who gave the name “Salt+Light” to the young adult ministry, and he is a spiritual father to many in the community.

Christina has a mild disposition that masks a vivacious mind and a great capacity for organization. She grew up here in St. Louis, attending Cor Jesu Academy. Her love for the Sacred Heart is evident in her generous, yet quiet, manner of administrating the young adult community.

Christina plans the ever-popular Country Dances. Many in the community are grateful for these events that have led to some wonderful relationships (we will not mention the many awkward dates that have also come about, as they do everywhere!).

In her free time, Christina enjoys crafts and playing volleyball with friends she met through the young adult community. She attends St. Gabriel the Archangel Parish, and serves as the Administrative Coordinator for Salt+Light.