The Reverend Christopher Michael Riehl

The Reverend Christopher Michael Riehl was born in Gowen, MI on November 7, 1977. After having moved around during his childhood, Father Riehl settled in Jefferson City, TN where he graduated from high school. While studying for – and subsequently earning – an associate degree with an emphasis in law at Walter State Community College, Father Riehl began discerning a call to the priesthood. He later earned a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from Conception Seminary in Conception, MO, and a Master of Divinity from Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary in Wynnewood, PA.
In May 2007, Father Riehl shared the distinction of being ordained a deacon alongside his father, John Riehl, by the Most Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, archbishop of Louisville. They were ordained at Holy Trinity Church in Jefferson City, their home parish. On November 14, 2009, Father Riehl was ordained a priest of Jesus Christ by the Most Reverend Richard F. Stika, bishop of Knoxville.
Father Riehl loved sports, regularly played golf, watched football with his family and friends, and frequently explored the outdoors. While he was also an excellent cook who found immense joy preparing exceptional meals for those he loved, his true love was for Our Lord Jesus Christ and his Mother, the Blessed Virgin Mary. Through his deep devotion to Mary, Mother of God, Father Riehl not only recently published a book entitled, "Listen to Our Lady," but also was working on a second book.
Father Riehl was called to his eternal home Thursday evening, November 10 from medical complications related to diabetes. Having just celebrated his 45th birthday on Monday, November 7, he was also a week shy of his 13th anniversary of priestly ordination.
Father Riehl is survived by his parents, Deacon John and Shirley Riehl, and his siblings: Suzie, Jeff, Jennifer, Tony, Cindy, and Tim. Eleven nieces and nephews also survive him. He will be remembered by those who were fortunate enough to know our beloved son and brother.
Father Riehl's Funeral Mass will take place on Wednesday, November 16, at 10:30 a.m. at Holy Ghost Catholic Church, 1041 N Central Street, Knoxville. Family will receive friends before the service from 9:30-10:30am. The Burial will be at 3:00 p.m. at Mount Olivet Cemetery, 1 Mount Olivet Drive, Chattanooga.
In lieu of flowers, please consider memorials to Give to the Seminarian Second Collection, where your financial support makes Priesthood possible. https://dioknox.org/give-to-the-seminarian-second-collection