Reflections from Parishioner Deacon John Murray ordained to the permanent diaconate on Sept. 7

On September 7 I was ordained a deacon. My ordination was a wonderful milestone on a journey of love for me and for my wife Missy. We both believe St. Anthony on the Lake has been an integral part of this journey.

Several years ago, through an Alpha program sponsored by the parish, I started to feel and appreciate God's great love for me. That experience awakened a desire in me to share His love with others. Missy and I both became more active in the parish--stewardship, finance council, lectors, and eucharistic ministers. But I still felt a desire to do more. That led us to consider and explore the diaconate.

The deacon formation program formally took four years. During that time, so many members of our parish have been supportive and encouraging. The people who attend daily Mass have welcomed me and helped me learn how to lead a liturgical celebration. Fr. Tony has provided unbelievable guidance and support. Vince LaTona has gone out of his way to give me opportunities to serve. I could go on and on.

Over the last few years, Missy and I have been overwhelmed by the number of parishioners who have randomly come up to us to encourage us, tell us they support us, and (most importantly) tell us they are praying for us. Those prayers have helped to open us up to God's love for us and His call to continue on the path toward becoming a deacon. I cannot tell you how much those prayers have meant to both of us. Please keep praying for us. I hope your prayers will allow me to serve the people of St. Anthony on the Lake parish in a way that helps each of them to feel my gratitude and God's great love for them. Thank you.