Father Dave Bonnar is the fourth of five children to the late George and Mary Bernadette Bonnar. Father Bonnar is the son of a butcher. His mother was a homemaker. Father Bonnar graduated from Duquesne University with a B.A. in Social Communications. He attended the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome where he received an S.T.B.
In his 32 years of priesthood, Father Bonnar has served as parochial vicar, part-time high school chaplain, pastor, rector of the diocesan seminary, director of vocations, director of the permanent diaconate, secretary of parish and ministerial leadership, and vicar of clergy. For 12 years he was chaplain for the Pittsburgh Steelers and attended two Super Bowls in which the Steelers won.
In addition to serving as the founding pastor of the new Saint Aidan Parish, Father Bonnar is also editor of
The Priest Magazine which is published by Our Sunday Visitor. Father Bonnar just completed a six-year term as a member of the inaugural Catholic High Schools of the Diocese of Pittsburgh Board. Father Bonnar is an avid sports fan who is a part-time season ticket holder for the Pittsburgh Pirates. He enjoys golf, biking, walking, the outdoors, and writing. Most of all, he loves being a parish priest.
Bishop-Elect Bonnar will celebrate his Episcopal Ordination on January 12, 2021.