Let me express once again what a profound blessing and relief it is to have deacons Antonio luna and Jimmy Aybar serving in our parish. I am very hopeful and excited to witness how the Holy Spirit will work through them in the years to come, and the abundant fruit their ministries will bear for our community. As they settle in ministry at St. Patrick, thank you for opening your hearts to them and making them feel truly welcomed, appreciated, and supported.
I am especially grateful to their families—and in a particular way, to their wives Nancy Luna and Wendolyn Aybar—for their generous “yes” to God and for willingly sharing their husbands with our parish family. Ladies, your sacrifice and support are a beautiful testimony to your magnanimity. Thank you; God will surely reward your generosity.
Although our parish is blessed to be familiar with deacons, it is always worth reflecting on the rich ways they serve the Body of Christ. while they can celebrate baptisms, wakes and committals, serve at the altar, witness weddings, proclaim and preach the gospel, let me highlight 3 aspects of their ministry here.
Deacons are men of service: The word deacon comes from the Greek diakonos, meaning “servant” or “helper.” Deacons are men deeply in love with God and His Church who have answered a call to serve in a radical, committed way. Ordained to assist bishops and priests, a deacon’s primary mission is to be a living icon of Christ the Servant, proclaiming through his daily life the Church’s call to care for the needs of others. In the early Church, deacons were chosen to serve at tables and care for the vulnerable. While the practical needs of the Church have evolved over the centuries, at their core, these humble men remain steadfast servants. Wherever there is a need, they are ready to be present. Would you like your home, car, or religious articles blessed? Reach out to our deacons. Having known Antonio Luna and Jimmy Aybar, I can attest that they are remarkably generous men whose hearts are always open to you.
Deacons can celebrate sweet16 and quinceañeras: Few milestones in family life are as joyous and life-giving as a sweet16 or a quinceañera. It is a tremendous gift to have our deacons available to share in these sacred moments, especially when a priest’s schedule is stretched thin. Our deacons are fully equipped to walk with you during these unforgettable and turning points in life. Do not hesitate to ask—you will be met with a joyful “yes.”
Deacons can accompany you through the annulment process: One of the most vital and delicate aspects of ministry is guiding individuals through the Church’s annulment process. Far more than paperwork, this journey is a profound time of spiritual healing that demands patience, sensitivity, and deep pastoral care. Because it is so personal, it can often bring up painful wounds buried in the past. A priest’s schedule sometimes does not allow for the extended time this journey requires; our deacons are here to offer a listening ear, confidentiality, and steady spiritual support.
