Meet Deacon Michael!
Where are you from?
I am from the beautiful state of Michigan. My wife Kathleen and I met and raised our family Alex and Stephanie in Michigan. Both kids are now married, Alex lives in Virginia and Stephanie in California and both have 3 children. So, Kathleen and I spend our time-off flying from coast to coast having fun with our 6 grandchildren. The last two and half years I was assigned at St. Joseph Parish in Richardson.
What were you doing before you started working at St. Francis?
My first career was in the Life Science Research Field. After moving to Texas 12 years ago I worked as an operations manager for a small construction company.
What is your favorite dessert?
Carrot cake with real carrots and vanilla ice cream.
What are your hobbies?
My hobbies include walking, reading, racket/pickle ball, fishing and occasional golf. I also enjoy watching almost all sports and find it a great way to connect and have conversations with people from everywhere.
If you could have dinner with one person, dead or alive, who would it be?
My Grandpa, John Paul Sherbak, a Slovakian immigrant. He died when I was only 12 years old. In that short period of time, he was a great role model and was a witness of love and how to live and share his Catholic faith with me and everyone he met. I would like an evening with him to ask for advice and to learn from his experience and wisdom.
Who is your favorite saint?
St Mother Thresea of Calcutta. Her contemporary ministry was one of being with one person at a time and seeing Christ in everyone she met. My hope is serving as a deacon I may mirror her examples of faith, hope and love.
What is your favorite form of prayer?
Eucharistic Adoration. During Adoration being with Jesus, I am at peace and feel the Holy Spirit which helps me to focus and reflect better on scripture and spiritual readings.
Do you have a favorite quote or bible verse?
Ephesians 1:1-14. This verse has become my compass of who truly I am and what this life is all about. A fun way to witness the power of this verse is to watch the movie: The Overcomer.
What made you want to work for the Church?
After discerning the Diaconate for close to 15 years and then continuing this discernment during the 6 years of formation, I have come to realize God is calling me to the Church to serve through my life experiences and the love and joy of helping others.
What excites you the most about being on staff?
St. Francis parish provides a lot of opportunities, not just in the size of the parish but also in its diversity and many ministries. I have a hunch and hope I will be very busy serving, assisting, and praying with the people of God here at St. Francis!
En
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