Meet our future deacons

Jorge Arturo Sanchez Leanos

Name: Jorge Arturo Sanchez Leanos
Age: 49
Wife: Ma. Amalia Cisneros Netro
Home Parish: Holy Trinity Parish in Edinburgh
Occupation: Engineer
 

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

My paternal grandmother was my most influential religious role model. Her spirituality profoundly impacted my life. My parents enthusiastically encouraged me to walk God’s path with their example, continuously reminding me and my brothers the importance of fully relaying our lives to God. Father Clement Davis’ spiritual leadership drew me closer to the parish and strengthened my faith. As our kids grew in age, my wife’s devotion served me as a compass to reappraise the teachings of the Church. Finally, as I actively integrated into the Catholic community, the example and support of leaders like Deacon Juan Carlos Ramirez and his wife Gaby provided deeper meaning and a great inspiration to follow Jesus and serve his Church more intentionally.
 

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

My favorite Scripture verses are Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart … and he will make straight your paths,” and Acts 9:1-28, which recounts the conversion of St. Paul. Mary and St. Joseph are indispensable Christian models for family life. “Salve Regina” is the prayer that has impacted me the most.

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?

COVID-19 restrictions have changed the game rules. The personal touch with co-workers is limited. On the other hand, this situation leveraged digital resources to be in closer contact with those who are both near and far away. The pandemic awakened a deeper level of vulnerability among family, friends and co-workers. Prayerfully and compassionately listening to others about how COVID has affected their families, their suffering, and providing care and support in all possible ways, have been the new norm in the last two years.
 

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

By the grace of God and with the help of others, I was invited to listen to the Gospel more actively and I fell in love with it. The loving word of God brings hope and joy to those who receive it and doubles down for those who convey it. My life has been blessed. I am joyfully obliged to serve and pass along the good news.
 

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

I believe the deacon formation program transformed my life and has positively impacted my family. I hope that this will continue after ordination, and by living this transformation in our household, everyone in the family will take this spiritual experience into their own lives. I am optimistic this effect will be positive and can transcend for generations.
 

How do you hope to serve through your life and ministry as a deacon?

The diaconate ministry is a distinct honor, a privileged opportunity to pass on the good news of the Gospel. I pray I can convey the message by an active, humble presence that activates the merciful love of Jesus, our Lord. The Prayer of St. Francis offers a unique perspective of doing so. †