SUMMER 2023: With Deacon Formation over, I have begun providing services in the following ministries. Preaching, it is really enjoyable writing and delivering a homily or sermon for weekend Mass. I have also been performing Communion Services for parishioners in assisted living communities. I have really enjoyed getting to know them better and learn more about their rock-solid faith. Performing Baptisms, I love seeing the joy of a family gathered for the very special occasion of a child’s baptism. It always gives me a renewed sense of faith and hope. Finally, a real special moment was performing a Home Blessing for my son’s house pictured below.
SPIRITUAL DIRECTION: I have been attending Spiritual Direction classes since the beginning of this year. The classes are administered by the Archdiocese of Saint Louis. Spiritual direction is often described as the journey of discovering and discerning God’s will and has a long-standing tradition within the Catholic Church. The completion of the class will allow me to help others navigate the spiritual life and grow in relationship with God.
FIRST HOMILY: Below I have attached a video of my first Homily or Sermon. The Gospel passage was from John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son”. I was really surprised by the number of people that came up to me after mass and expressed how they were impacted, even one person telling me it was “life changing”. Also, people asked me if I was nervous. I said, I think I had slightly more courage than fear, something like 51% Courage & 49% Fear. 😊
NEXT BLOG: I look forward to sharing more of my experiences in this ministry. Thanks for checking out my Blog! “Love itself starts with the desire for something good” — Fulton Sheen