May 5, 2017

Meet our future deacons

John Jacobi

John JacobiAge: 47
Wife: Carmen
Home Parish: St. Michael Parish, Bradford
Occupation: Director of Religious Education and Youth Ministry Coordinator
 

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

My wife Carmen and our three daughters, my parents, Fathers Albert Diezeman, William Pappano, John Fink, Aaron Pfaff, and Joseph Villa and Benedictine Fathers Bonaventure Knaebel and Jerome Palmer. Also, the many catechists, teachers, spiritual directors and colleagues I’ve had in ministry, the children and young people I have worked with over the years.
 

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

My favorite Scripture verse is Mi 6:8. Some of my favorite saints are St. John Bosco, St. Maximilian Kolbe, St. Kateri Tekakwitha, St. Damien of Molokai and St. John Paul II. My favorite prayers include the Liturgy of the Hours, reflecting on Scripture readings and worshipping at Mass.
 

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

I am continually amazed at how God will place people in your path as long as you are open to being used by God. I have been so very blessed to be able to walk with people on the journey in both the good times and the difficult times.
 

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

I have tried to listen to God’s call throughout my life. Over the past few years, it seemed like God was calling me to something more. In my discernment and conversations with family, it became evident that call was leading me toward the diaconate.
 

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

I love sharing the faith with others, so I am excited about continuing in this ministry. I have also been greatly blessed by visiting those in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. I pray that I can truly be a servant as Jesus called us all to be when he washed the feet of his disciples. †

Local site Links: