Here’s a note from Deacon John by way of introduction

The Gospel tells us that the sheep hear the Shepherd’s voice and follow him. As my wife, Veronica and I have listened for that voice, it has led us to so many wonderful experiences of service to the holy people of God. I was ordained to the diaconate by Bishop Gainer nine years ago and spent my first years with four mountain parishes in Whitley and Knox counties.

Listening for His voice took us to serve as missionaries in Cairo, Egypt, followed by ministry in Texas and mission trips to Latin America with Maryknoll. We returned to Kentucky last year to assist with the transition of a cluster of parishes in the eastern mountains to a new leadership model. In all of these places scattered throughout the world, we have seen the face of Jesus Christ reflected in the faces of so many good people. We feel so blessed today to join the people of Mary Queen of the Holy Rosary parish as together we listen for the voice of our Shepherd, and follow wherever He leads us!”