Father Purpura was ordained to the priesthood to serve the Diocese of Brooklyn on June 30, 2007.

Father Purpura has served as a parochial vicar at St. Bernard and Our Lady of Hope.

In 2015, Father Purpura was named the rector of the Cathedral Basilica of St. James, and presently serves as the pastor of Our Lady of Hope.

Father Purpura holds a Licentiate of Canon Law degree and is a vice-chancellor of the Brooklyn Diocese.

He previously served as an associate judicial vicar for the Diocese.

Father Purpura is a member of the Knights of the Holy Sepulchre and is a chaplain to the Queensboro Chapter of UNICO (Unity, Neighborliness, Integrity, Charity, Opportunity) National.