St. Jude Catholic Church

You may ask: "Exactly what makes someone a "deacon" and what is his job in the Church?" Here's some background from the Catholic Encyclopedia: According to the constant tradition of the Catholic Church, the narrative of Acts 6: 1-6, which serves to introduce the martyrdom of St. Stephen, describes the first institution of the office of deacon.

The apostles, in order to meet the complaints of the Hellenistic Jews that, "their widows were neglected in the daily ministrations" (diakonia), called together the multitude of the disciples and said: It is not reasonable that we should leave the word of God and serve (diakonein) tables. Wherefore, brethren, look ye out seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. But we will give ourselves continuously to prayer, and to the ministry of the word (te diakonia tou logou).

And the saying was liked by all the multitude. And they chose Stephen, a man full of faith, and of the Holy Ghost."

If you would like to read more of the Catholic Encyclopedia's discussion of the permanent diaconate, click here.

St. Jude Parish's Permanent Deacons

Dioscean Ministry Assignment

Gaspar DeGaetano Parish, RCIA Coordinator

Brian Gabor Hospital (Memorial Hospital; others)

Tom McConnell Prisoners, jail

Click on the Deacon's name above to learn more.

Deacons Gaspar, Brian and Tom (left to right) above, photographed for the newspaper's article on their ordination and assignment to St. Jude Parish.