June 13, 2008

Meet our future deacons

Wesley JonesWesley Jones

  • Age: 61
  • Spouse: Mary Jane
  • Home Parish: St. Jude Parish in Indianapolis
  • Occupation: College Professor; Hospice Chaplain

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

Christ and Our Lady are role models in my life of faith. My model of love comes from my wife, Mary Jane. My models of spirituality and service have been formed by the men and women religious of Our Lady of Gethsemane Abbey near Bardstown, Ky., Saint Meinrad Archabbey in St. Meinrad and Our Lady of Grace Monastery in Beech Grove.

What are your favorite Scripture verses, prayers and devotions?

The Liturgy of the Hours and the Psalms are my favorite devotions and prayers. I love the range of emotions that they express. My favorite prayer … was written by Thomas Merton, and comes from his book Thoughts in Solitude.

Deacons often minister to others in the workplace. How have you experienced that, and how do you anticipate doing it in the future?

The call to ministry has been so strong with me that I left a 25-year career as a college professor to follow ministry. It is my hope that in the future I will also be a chaplain for all those who work in Catholic Charities, especially those on the “front lines” working with the poor and recent immigrants.

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

When I got married, I was an agnostic coming from a Protestant background. My wife and a small group of folk musicians in Lexington, Ky., “loved” me into the Church. I have taken weeklong retreats to Our Lady of Gethsemane for the past 30-some years. These retreats have helped to develop my spirituality. Other life experiences have taught me that I am most happy when I am helping someone else. The service of a deacon is my way to being happy.

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

Deacon formation has made my wife and I face decisions about how we relate to God, each other and how will spend the rest of our lives. This has drawn us closer together. The instructors, staff and other candidates and wives have graced us with wonderful friendships and support. †

 

(Go to the Deacon formation homepage)

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