May 5, 2017

Meet our future deacons

Oliver Jackson

Oliver JacksonAge: 69
Wife: Cora
Home Parish: St. Rita Parish, Indianapolis
Occupation: Retired police officer
 

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

Jesus Christ himself, and the many priests and people of faith that I have meet in my lifetime.
 

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

My favorite Scripture verses are Mt 11:29-30 and Ps 23. My favorite saints are St. Rita and St. Paul. My favorite prayers are the Our Father, the Act of Contrition, the Apostles Creed, the rosary, the Memorare and the serenity prayer.
 

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?

Before my retirement, I had many police officers and civilians who would come to me wanting to talk, not only about work-related situations but also personal situations. Many times we would discuss their faith in God. Even today in my part-time job, workers want to talk with me about their life experiences.
 

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

I have always felt that God was calling me to do something, but I did not know what it was. When I realized that it was the deacon path, I still was not sure. But as I continued to pray on this, I understood that God would make a way for me if this was his will, just as he has done for me, and will continue to do.
 

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

To be a deacon in the Church would be a blessing beyond compare. I can ask for no more in this life than to know that the Lord Jesus has allowed me, of all his children, to be a trusted servant of him and his people, to bring the word and share his Good News and knowing the support and blessing of my family during this journey of faith. †

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