Meet our future deacons

Paul Fisherkeller

Age: 69
Wife: Sandy
Home Parish: St. Mark the Evangelist Parish, Indianapolis
Occupation: Retired
 

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

Both my grandmothers had a profound and lasting influence in my spiritual formation. One was a third-order Franciscan, the other served the sick for many years as a hospital nurse. Both were dedicated to a life of prayer and active service to others.
 

What are your favorite Scripture verses, saints, prayers and devotions?

My favorite Scripture verses are Ps 27:8, Eph 3:17-19 and 2 Pt 1:3-4. My favorite saints are St. Teresa of Avila and St. John of the Cross. My favorite prayer or devotion is Lectio Divina.
 

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

I’ve always felt called to ministry even as child. Honestly, though, I’ve been a little surprised by my call to be a deacon at this later stage of life. I am humbly thankful to God for all the gifts I have been given: a blessed and lasting marriage, wonderful children and grandchildren, a successful career, reasonably good health, and the freedom to choose my own path in life. I believe God is asking me now to make a return for all these blessings by placing my life completely in his hands for service to his people.
 

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

I have come to believe that the diaconate is a gift which is first received and then shared, first and foremost with my wife and family. My married and family life continues to teach me the true meaning of obedience, fidelity and trust, joy and suffering, healing and forgiveness, and the power of reciprocal, self-sacrificing love.
 

How do you hope to serve through your life and ministry as a deacon?

I am very aware of the hunger and thirst which many people today have for a more personal and committed spirituality in a culture that is increasingly alienated from God. Spiritual direction is a great gift to the Church. As a deacon, I hope to be able to offer and promote spiritual direction within the archdiocese. †