Meet our future deacons

James Wood

Name: James Wood
Age: 58
Wife: Andrea Wood
Home Parish: St. Simon the Apostle, Indianapolis
Occupation: Coordinator of catechetical resources for the Archdiocese of Indianapolis
 

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

My folks were important role models in my life. Others include Msgr. Charles Ross, Benedictine sisters who taught me, Benedictine monks at Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology when I attended there, Pope Francis and the faithful priests, deacons and religious of the archdiocese.
 

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

My favorite Scripture passage is the prologue of the Gospel of St. John. My favorite saints are Our Lady of Guadalupe, St. Joseph, St. Stephen and St. Lawrence. The Liturgy of the Hours, the prayer to St. Michael the Archangel and the Memorare are among my favorite prayers.

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

When I worked in the business world, folks came to me informally to seek advice and ask for prayers knowing I was a devout Catholic. Since I have been in formation, a few folks have sought me out asking for my prayers, asking me to help take Communion to the sick and serve the poor in different capacities. As a deacon, I hope to serve the poor and homeless and continue to bring Christ to those who need him.
 

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

I feel God is calling me to become a deacon because God is in control and I am not. I have always sought the help of God when I am discerning anything in my life. I allow God to lead and follow the best I can, always trying to seek God’s will, even though I don’t have all the answers. Since 2004 when the archdiocese began to restore the permanent diaconate, God has been nudging me. God’s nudge has led me here today. By the will of God, I pray for strength to continue to follow wherever he leads.
 

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

Well, the last four years have already had a great impact on my life and family. I doubt the impact will lessen after ordination. It is great in the sense that God is good and merciful, giving me strength after strength to continue this discernment. My life and family are better because of this journey. We are closer to God than ever before.
 

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

I hope to serve through my life and ministry as a deacon by honoring my first vocation, which is to serve my spouse and family and get them to heaven. In my ministries of charity, teaching and in worship as a deacon, I hope to share God’s love and care with others. †