 In June 2008, he was appointed to serve as the Division chaplain of the Second Infantry Division in Korea, and served as a deputy command chaplain of the U.S. Army Europe for operations, plans and training.On May 22, 2010, Spencer was appointed auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese for the Military Services and titular bishop of "Auzia" by Pope Benedict XVI.His episcopal consecration took place on September 8, 2010, in the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C.

Spencer's awards include