My heartfelt thanks go out to all of the parishioners of St. Matthew’s, the staff, my “fellow” Deacons and of course, Fr. Dave, for all of the prayer, support and encouragement over the past 5 years of my discernment and formation to the Diaconate.
From the moment that Lisa and I first came into our church in the fall of 2000 we knew that we were meant to be here. We began our “return” to the Church when Lisa enrolled in the RCIA process under the guidance of Deacon Ed Keegan and was confirmed in 2001. It was during the following year that I first heard the “calling” to the Diaconate.
These past 5 years have included training in Christology, the Synoptic Gospels (the Gospels of Matthew, Mark & John), Church History, Canon Law, Social Justice, Liturgy & the Sacraments, Homiletics and many more areas. It also included summer practicum in Social Services and Hospital Ministry. Along the way I was taught by many wonderful instructors, many of whom also teach at Immaculate Heart Seminary. We were led under the direction of Msgr. Robert M. Diachek, Director of the Diaconate) and Deacons Richard Pinto (Class Mentor) and Frank Para (Class Advisor) with Fr. John Andrew Connell leading us in Spiritual Formation. In addition, Fr. P. Christopher Muldoon served as my Spiritual Director.
We had a lot of highs and lows – and personal challenges – over these past five years but we always knew that when we needed you the most that you were always there for us. You were all a constant source of love, energy and support as you continue to be. We were so touched by those of you who came out to the Cathedral for the ordination and then to see so many of you who were in attendance as I served at my first Mass that night. And then having my family, friends and fellow parishioners being treated to such a spectacular dinner that evening prepared by our “in-house Chef”, Charles DiGisco with “5 star” service led by Kim Healey, Dan Farley and “crew” that evening truly topped off a PERFECT day!
St. Matthew’s has been blessed by other Deacons before me beginning with the late Mike Yukas, our first Deacon, as well as Tom Raymond, Pat Sheehan and Steve Gunther.
I will have the pleasure of working along side of Ed Keegan, Rich Brady and Jack Dugger as well as many of you who are involved in of our wonderful ministries, all under the pastoral leadership of Fr. Dave.
There is much to do and I promise that I will keep you all in my prayers and I ask that you all do the same for Lisa and I. My work has now begun but we will only be successful with the continued love and support of you all.
“if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to bear witness to the gospel of God’s grace.” – Acts of the Apostle 20:24
God’s love and blessings to you all,
Deacon Jim and Lisa Hackett
