Jason Shanks, a former Methodist turned Catholic convert, found his faith journey guided by the Catholic Church's Eucharistic beliefs. His passion for evangelization led him to roles such as President of the OSV Institute and CEO of Catholic Charities, Southeast Michigan. Melissa, a cradle Catholic, rediscovered her faith through studying architecture at Notre Dame. As a registered architect, she now focuses on raising their five children, including Nora, who has special needs. Together, they share a commitment to their Catholic faith, working on sacred art committees and marriage prep ministry in Columbus, Ohio.

In 2020, three years after moving to Northeastern Indiana, where they currently reside with their five children, Jason was intubated and sedated for six weeks due to COVID-19, and through the prayers of many, was miraculously healed. As a couple, they learned that marriage truly belongs to the whole body of Christ, and that trusting in the work of the spirit through the larger Church is absolutely critical. This suffering was far beyond what their family could handle on its own and was a deep call to trust and the Lord worked many miracles through the love and generosity of friends, family, and strangers alike. In 2021, he and his wife, Melissa, were named Catholics of the Year by OSV for their witness to faith in a time of suffering. This experience led Jason to more fully understand the Eucharistic heart of Jesus.

Upon being named as the next CEO of the National Eucharistic Congress, Jason said, “God has begun a work in me that I must see through.”