Cooper Ray is a seasoned and respected Catholic speaker, worship leader, and retreat facilitator. Known for his dynamic presence and heartfelt approach, he uses music, storytelling, humor, and audience engagement to invite people into a deeper experience of their faith. Whether leading teens, college students, or adults, Cooper inspires listeners to recognize God’s presence in their lives and live more fully as Catholic Christians.

For over 20 years, Cooper has inspired youth and adults at countless diocesan, parish, and school events across the country. He has led worship and spoken at major national gatherings such as the National Catholic Youth Conference, the National Conference on Catholic Youth Ministry, Catholic Heart Work Camp, and the Steubenville Youth Conferences. His engaging style and relatable message consistently resonate with audiences—reaching even the teen in the back row.

Cooper’s call to ministry began during his college years while serving as a camp counselor at a Catholic summer camp. There, his passion for music and ministry was ignited, setting him on a path to help others encounter Christ. After six summers at camp, he transitioned into diocesan ministry in Baton Rouge, where he served for 10 years, including 7 as Director of Youth Ministry. His speaking ministry began to flourish soon after, leading to opportunities in parishes, schools, and dioceses across the country.

Following 16 years in formal ministry, Cooper answered the call to go “on the road” full-time, spending 9 years traveling nationwide, leading conferences, retreats, rallies, and missions. He also served “in the trenches” of parish life for 4 years as Coordinator of Middle School Ministry at St. Ann in Coppell, TX. A published artist with Spirit & Song, Cooper also spent 8 years directing contemporary liturgical music at his parish in Baton Rouge.

Cooper worked with Newman Ministry for 3 years, first as Director of Programming and later as Director of Strategic Partnerships, helping to support and expand Catholic campus ministry nationwide. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Pastoral Studies.

Cooper lives in Flower Mound, TX with his wife Laura and three sons, Eli, Keller and Maximus.