May 12, 2017

Meet our future deacons

Jerome Matthews

Jerome MatthewsAge: 68
Wife: Cathy
Home Parish: St. Barnabas Parish, Indianapolis
Occupation: Retired
 

Who are the important role models in your life of faith?

My parents had the greatest impact on me from their strong Catholic faith and in their example of living the Gospel. I am also inspired by the many priests and sisters that I encountered throughout my life.
 

What are your favorite Scripture verses, saints, prayers and devotions?

My favorite Scripture passage is Mt 25:31-46. My favorite saint is St. Paul, and I have a special devotion to our Blessed Mother. My favorite prayers include the Mass, receiving the Eucharist and the rosary.
 

Why do you feel that God is calling you to become a deacon?

I feel God is calling me to be a deacon to serve him in a much greater capacity in the liturgies and the world than I could ever do as a lay person. It is a calling that will utilize the ever-present graces of ordination to allow Jesus to work through me to bring his love, mercy and healing to his people.
 

How will being ordained a deacon have an impact on your life and family?

I hope to keep God first, believing he will be with me taking care of the details to balance my family and life as a deacon. I will have less time for myself and family, but by serving Jesus, my life will be more fruitful, joyful and grace-filled.
 

How do you hope to serve through your life and ministry as a deacon?

I hope to be humble and go wherever and serve in whatever manner God is calling me. I hope to be especially available and present to people in their time of sickness and death, sorrow, despair, loneliness, and to hear the cry of the poor and vulnerable, responding with my heart. †

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