March 14, 2008

Meet our future deacons

Thomas WardThomas Ward

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

My role models begin with the Holy Family. My own family—from my great-grandmother to our sons and daughter and our grandchildren, priests, religious, teachers and friends too numerous to list—have been inspirational to me.

What are your favorite Scripture verses, prayers and devotions?

The beginning of John’s Gospel encapsulates the New Testament in beautiful imagery. It was the “Last Gospel” at every Sunday Mass in my youth. I love the Eucharist more and more.

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

It has always been clear to me that I should do “good.” How better for me to do some good than by aspiring to ordination then fulfilling my vocation as deacon, father and husband to the best of my ability? Loving God, my wife and our children is a very good thing.

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

My role as deacon will be more public, therefore, I will be held to a higher standard by my fellow parishioners. Donna and I will be more visible and more subject to scrutiny than regular members of the congregation. I pray that my family will see [in me] a good example and tolerate the interference with family activities that my diaconal duties impose.

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

I pray that my example and ministry will help others, especially the marginalized, in their pursuit of holiness. I look forward to obeying my pastor and archbishop as a true servant of Christ.†

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