April 4, 2008

Meet our future deacons

Michael Gardner Michael Gardner

  • Age: 54
  • Spouse: LuCinda
  • Home Parish: Prince of Peace Parish in Madison
  • Occupation: Analyzer Specialist and Crew Leader at Dow Corning in Carrollton, Ky.

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

There are many important role models in my life: my wife, parents, as well as many of my past teachers and parish priests. I am happy to say our children and grandchildren are also role models for me.

What are your favorite Scripture verses, prayers and devotions?

I love the Prologue to the Gospel of St. John (Jn 1:1-18) and I enjoy lectio divina as a form of prayer.

Deacons often minister to others in the workplace. How have you experienced that and what do you anticipate doing in the future?

I have been asked by my company to lead a Family Notification Team in the case of serious injury or death in the plant. One of the aspects of this program is that we have gathered a group of employee volunteers, many of whom have some sort of ministry training, to be the first line when making a notification.

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

From the first moment I heard about the diaconate, I was drawn to it. Unlike some in our group, I really did not know much about the diaconate, but something seemed to be urging me forward. As my wife and I began to go to informational meetings, I became more drawn and my prayer turned to questions of God about his intention for my life. This prayer has continued. As I began doing work in the parish, I’ve recognized in my heart that a servant minister is not only what God is calling me to do, but it is who he has been creating me to be. I finally know what I want to be when I grow up.

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

As ordination draws near, I have thought a great deal about this. I know I will be called away from my family in many of my parish ministries. My family has been very supportive when I could not be with them over the past years, but I believe my ministry is also changing how my family chooses to live their lives. Cindy and I have always ministered as a couple. In the end, only the Lord knows where he will take us. †

 

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