Jubilee: Deacon Interviews Part I

Deacon Interviews Part I

Deacon Alex Rodriguez & Anita 1992-Present: First Impression— Fr. Mike, 1982 the Stone Chapel & church. Played guitar & started Latino choir. Anita director Religious Ed for 15 years (APG & SFDS). Fondest Memory— Being chosen for deacon studies & ordained 2003. Fr. Mike chose me for SFDS in 2005. Preaching, talking with the people is a gift from God. Started the Latino Mass in Stone Chapel, also a small choir and now a growing youth group. Brought Our Lady of Guadelupe Banner from Central Americato Stone Chapel. Most Impressed—By Increase in number of Latino members from original 30-40 to 300 from 17 countries. Youth group now partnered with Anglo group.  Favorite Activities— Three kings bilingual mass 2003, first multicultural event in 2011, Spanish installation of Cardinal O’Brien, Holy Week Stations by youth on Good Friday. Most Admired— Fr. Mike who started Latin ministry, Fr. Chuck for continuing it.  Final Thoughts — Must remember God is with us, change is good. He wants us to be involved. Anita, my “ deaconess” has helped me the most along the way along with The Dannys C & V.

Deacon Jim Sullivan 2001-Present: First Impression— Assigned here by Fr. Partrick for 2 years .This is my first and only parish as a deacon since 2001. It is a wonderful, loving parish. Fondest Memory— Being ordained as deacon here and people clapped and the letter writing campaign by parishioners to Archbishop to keep me at SFDS. Most Impressed— Generosity of people, the homey, warm feeling of Worship Center, helped by parishioner feedback on my Homilies. My Activities–Associate pastor, business manager, director of social action programs, oversee liturgy committee, volunteer Prince Peace once a month Favorite Activities— all liturgies of High Holy days, liaison with parish committees, can intervene before problems arise. Most Admired— Fr. Mike taught me about ministering to people.

REMEMBER WE ARE ST. FRANCIS!!