Meet our future deacons

Larry French

• Age: 59
• Spouse: Therese
• Home Parish: St. Joseph Parish in Jennings County
• Occupation: Retired U.S. Postal Service Letter Carrier; now working part time in sales

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

My first two role models were my Mom and Dad. Mom was [an] everyday moral and faith guide for my siblings and myself. My Dad had a great devotion to the Church, its priests and to the sisters who taught at St. Ambrose School. My wife, Terri, has been my guide of faith. Another role model of mine, Father Joseph Moriarty, has been a very dear friend and was the first one who saw “deacon” material in me. He has been a source of inspiration and faith for both Terri and me.

What are your favorite Scripture verses, prayers and devotions?

Psalm 100 is one reading that gets me excited about the coming day. I also enjoy Eph 4:29-32: “Never let evil talk pass your lips, say only the good things men need to hear.” With that opening, it reminds us how to be positive when talking to someone, and how hurtful idle talk can be. The Memorare is a favorite of mine because it reminds me of the times I would go to my own mother, God rest her soul, to ask forgiveness or assistance. My patron saints are St. Lawrence and St. Joseph.

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

I have had discussions on family matters, wives and girlfriends on the workplace floor. These men are not Catholic and they have no idea what a deacon is, but they know who Larry is. They know I have been taking classes, but that is about it. What they do know and understand is that I will listen to them, and I care about them and their families.

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

I feel that God has been calling me for a long time. I have been serving my parish community for many years. Year after year, I have become a little more active in parish life and service. My calling to become a deacon has been a blessing because I am allowed to serve my parish in an even greater capacity. There is a calling I feel deep inside me. I cannot explain it. It is an invitation I cannot refuse. I do not know what or where the deacon program will lead me, only to say that I feel that Jesus Christ is leading me. †

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