May 23, 2008

Meet our future deacons

Mike StratmanMike Stratman

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

My first role model of faith in my life is my wife, Cindy. She is loving, honest, understanding and supportive in my journey of faith. Janet Roth, our [parish] youth minister, has a love and dedication to our youth and the people she works with that is awesome! Another group that needs to be mentioned here is our prayer group. This awesome group of men and women has come together twice a month for the past 11 years. They offer a spiritual awareness of Christ’s presence in my life through prayer, reflection and support.

What are your favorite Scripture verses, prayers and devotions?

One of my of my favorite Scripture passages is 1 Cor 9:19-27. It describes the way that I approach my ministry as being “all things to all.” My daily prayer consists of the Liturgy of the Hours, daily readings of Scripture, and personal prayer devotions to St. Joseph and St. Michael the Archangel.

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

I believe we are all called to be ministers in some way within the Catholic Church. When I was accepted into the diaconate program, I felt God had a hand in the decision-making process. Throughout the four years of formation, God has guided me and given me the strength to follow the path of the diaconate and the peace of mind that comes from serving God.

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

The impact on my life and family as a deacon will be challenging, to say the least, when maintaining a balance within my life. My first obligation is to my marriage and family. I would not be here if it wasn’t for my family’s support and prayers. My love for the Catholic Church and my ministry as a deacon will be fruitful through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit when I minister with love and understanding to my family, friends and the Catholic Church. †

 

(Go to the Deacon formation homepage)

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