Ordained: June 2014
Family: Married to Karen Bridwell with two grown children and three grandchildren
Profession: Retired City Planner/Urban Economist and Commercial Banker
Home Parish: St. Stephen the First Martyr, Sanford, NC
Assigned Parish: St. Stephen the First Martyr, Sanford, NC
Hobbies: Writing, gardening/landscaping, spending time with grandchildren
When did you first consider a vocation to the permanent diaconate?
Before I met my wife my intentions were to become a priest. Over the years I have always been active as a eucharistic minister, catechist and as an adult altar server. In the early 2000s, I became aware of the permanent diaconate in my mid-fifties and intended to apply for the program but was informed I had passed the existing maximum age. In 2009 I learned the age limit had been removed and immediately applied for the program. In a way it seems that I finally closed the loop on a lifelong desire to serve the Church.
What is your favorite part of being a deacon?
There are many parts of being a deacon that I find very rewarding. I gain a deep sense of fulfillment every time I baptize a child. I once had the privilege of baptizing a baby the day before she had open-heart surgery. Helping couples prepare for marriage and presiding at a few weddings. Being honored with the privilege of preaching at the funerals of people I cared for. Facilitating RCIA for people preparing for a new life in the Church. All are important memories of my ministry, but what I cherish the most is the spiritual fulfillment of serving at the altar and proclaiming the gospel at Mass; and preaching the Word. That act of service offers a sense of devotion and spiritual wonder that sustains my soul.
My favorite part of being a deacon is being allowed to continue my commitment to public service with a social ministry devoted to serving the immigrant community with documentation assistance, working for social justice in the community, and providing for the needs of disadvantaged and marginalized children.
When I was first ordained, I told a brother deacon that I was not inclined to work with funerals. I felt disinclined to deal with the sadness of people’s death, family stress and the suffering of family members. I have learned that it has been a privilege to work with those nearing death, to bring comfort to them and their families, and to offer support in difficult circumstances. I guess God has a way of bringing me where I need to be.
What is your favorite scripture passage?
1 Corinthians 2:9
Who is your favorite saint?
St. Stephen (the first deacon and the first martyr)