Nine men prepare to serve as permanent deacons
November 12, 2025 at 12:55 p.m.
After four years of preparation and study, nine men will be ordained Nov. 15 as permanent deacons for the Diocese of Trenton. Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., will confer the Sacrament of Holy Orders in St. Robert Bellarmine Co-Cathedral, Freehold, giving them the faculties to preach and preside over weddings, Baptisms, wakes and committals. The Mass of Ordination will begin at 10 a.m. and will be livestreamed on the diocesan Youtube Channel https://www.youtube.com/trentondiocese.
From various careers and life experiences, the men are all married with families. Their formation has included completing studies that are consistent with the intellectual norms established by the National Directory of Formation, Ministry and Life of Permanent Deacons in the United States. Following are the profiles of the men who have answered God’s call to serve the Church of Trenton.
Anthony C. Cullen
SPONSORING PARISH: St. Benedict, Holmdel
PLACE OF BIRTH/YEAR: Brooklyn, N.Y./1985
FAMILY: Wife, Anne Cullen; son, Brendan (16), daughter, Lily (14); parents, Josephine Cullen and Anthony R. Cullen (deceased)
EMPLOYMENT: Campus minister, St. Benedict Church and School, Holmdel; retired, FDNY – EMS Operations, New York City (2006-2013)
EDUCATION: St. Athanasius School, Brooklyn, N.Y. (1989-1999), Cathedral Preparatory Seminary, Elmhurst, N.Y. (1999-2003); bachelor of arts in liberal arts, Thomas Edison State University, Trenton (2020); associate’s degree in liberal arts, Kingsborough Community College, Brooklyn, N.Y. (2005), master of arts in systematic theology, Seton Hall University, South Orange (2021-2025)
CERTIFICATES/HONORS/TECHNICAL TRAINING: Theta Alpha Kappa, Theological Honor Society, Eagle Scout
AREAS OF MINISTRY: In St. Benedict Parish and School, served as middle school religion teacher, campus minister, lector, extraordinary minister of Holy Communion, Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults/Order of Christian Initiation of Adults; in St. Athanasius, Brooklyn, was an altar sever, lector, extraordinary minister of Holy Community; in St. Mary Parish, Middletown, was altar sever, sacristan, extraordinary minister of Holy Communion, lector, youth ministry
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A VOCATION AS A DEACON? I have always felt called to serve the Church and I have in various parishes. From the time I started as an altar server in Brooklyn as a fifth grader, to teaching religious education and bringing Holy Communion to hospital patients in high school, youth ministry, and now teaching the faith to middle schoolers, this has brought me joy and let me be passionate about being a Catholic.
VESTING PRIEST: Father Garry Koch, pastor of St. Benedict Parish, Holmdel
James D. de Poortere
SPONSORING PARISH: St. Catharine-St. Margaret Parish, Spring Lake
PLACE OF BIRTH/YEAR: Morristown/1966
FAMILY: Wife, Christine; son, John Michael (28), daughter, Grace (27), daughter, Margaret (25); parents, Robert and Maureen (both deceased)
EMPLOYMENT: Worldwide Video Products Lead, Hewlett Packard Inc., Palo Alto, Calif.
EDUCATION: St. Vincent Martyr, Madison (1980); Oratory Prep, Summit (1984); Rutgers University, New Brunswick (1984-1986); master of arts in systematic theology, Seton Hall University, South Orange (2021-2025)
AREAS OF MINISTRY: In Christ the King Parish, New Vernon, was a substitute religious education teacher and young adults ministry leader; In St. James Parish, Basking Ridge, was a CYO coach; in St. Catharine-St. Margaret Parish, serves as a sacristan, lector, acolyte
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A VOCATION AS A DEACON? I felt called to serve both Christ and his Church as a permanent deacon. This calling includes heralding the Gospel through works of service, mercy and by living the Gospel message. Inspired by my devotion to the Blessed Virgin’s steadfast faith, humble obedience and charity, her example continues to shape my prayer, family life and public witness. My Marian devotion fuels my lifelong pledge to work with the people of God as a guardian of service by bridging worship with concrete charity within our community.
VESTING PRIEST: Father Damian McElroy, pastor of St. Catharine- St. Margaret Parish, Spring Lake
Chris I. Ellis Jr.
SPONSORING PARISH: Holy Innocents, Neptune
PLACE OF BIRTH/YEAR: Washington, D.C./1987
FAMILY: Wife, Kathleen; daughter, Sydney, (10), daughter, Avery (8), daughter, Bailey (1); parents, Lori Ellis and Chris Ellis, Sr.
EMPLOYMENT: Attorney, Audacy, Inc., Philadelphia
EDUCATION: Thomas G. Pullen School, Landover, Md.; Suitland High School, Forestville, Md. (2005); bachelor of science, TV/Film, St. John’s University, Queens, N.Y. (2009); juris doctor, Rutgers University School of Law, Newark (2014); master of arts in systematic theology, Seton Hall University, South Orange (2025)
CERTIFICATES/HONORS/TECHNICAL TRAINING: Certificate in diaconal studies and Pope Francis Medal for Academic Excellence, Seton Hall University, (2025), Diocese of Trenton Certificate in Catechesis, Theta Alpha Kappa Honor Society, Omicron Delta Kappa Honor Society, Phi Eta Sigma Honor Society, 2023 LCLD Fellow, Vincentian Initiative to Advance Leadership
AREAS OF MINISTRY: Catechist, acolyte, lector, extraordinary minister of Holy Communion, in Holy Innocents; altar server, lector, youth choir, in Holy Comforter-St. Cyprian, Washington, D.C.; campus ministry, St. John’s University
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A VOCATION AS A DEACON? From a young age, I felt drawn to serve the Church through music, altar serving and ministry. Over time, this grew into a deeper call – not just to participate, but to share God’s Word and help others encounter him. In prayer and service, I have continually sensed the Lord asking me to do more. The permanent diaconate is my response to that call, uniting service and faith.
VESTING PRIEST: Father H. Todd Carter, pastor of Holy Innocents Parish, Neptune
Gerard (Gez) Ford
SPONSORING PARISH: St. David the King, Princeton Junction
PLACE OF BIRTH/YEAR: Manchester, U.K./1966
FAMILY: Wife, Nadine; children, Patrick (36), Kevin (34), Tori (32); grandchildren, Lewis, Vera, Theo, Pippa, Molly, Francis, Peter, Eleanor and David; parents, Deacon Tony and Mary Ford
EMPLOYMENT: Pastoral associate, St. David the King Parish, Princeton Junction
EDUCATION: St. Hugh of Lincoln, Timperley, Cheshire, England (1971-1978); St. Ambrose College, Hale Barns, Cheshire, England (1978-1983); bachelor of arts degree in theology and religious studies, Victorian University of Manchester, England (1991-1995); master of arts in systematic theology, Seton Hall University, South Orange (2021-2025)
CERTIFICATES/HONORS/TECHNICAL TRAINING: Certificate in diaconal studies, theology, philosophy, Church history, alcohol and addiction counseling credits, Theta Alpha (National Theological Honors Society), additional credits form Franciscan University of Steubenville, Ohio, St. John’s University, Queens, N.Y., and Fordham University, New York City (between 1995-2010)
AREAS OF MINISTRY: Music ministry, youth and young adult ministry, evangelization, Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, religious education; addiction services mostly in the Diocese of Trenton. Service in St. Raphael-Holy Angels Parish, Hamilton, for 20 years and St. David the King Parish since June 2025. Also led retreats and speaking at conferences in the United States and throughout Europe for more than 30 years
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A VOCATION AS A DEACON? During COVID-19, Nadine had encouraged me to explore diaconal discernment. I had been wondering what the Lord would do with his Church at that difficult time of lockdowns, etc. I sensed his response by asking me what I would do. This became my response to that invite!
VESTING PRIEST: Father Jason Parzynski, pastor of St. David the King Parish, Princeton Junction
Errol Giordani
SPONSORING PARISH: St. Gabriel, Marlboro
PLACE OF BIRTH/YEAR: Haiti/1964
FAMILY: wife, Michele; daughter, Alyssa, 24, son, Marc-Erol, 22, son, Sebastien, 21; parents, Emmanuel Giordani and Monime Giordani
EMPLOYMENT: Supervisor, Human Resources Administration, Staten Island, N.Y.
EDUCATION: Meyer Levin Junior High School, Brooklyn, N.Y. (1979); Samuel J. Tilden High School, Brooklyn, N.Y. (1983); bachelor of arts degree in psychology, Hunter College, New York City (1990), master of arts in systematic theology, Seton Hall University, South Orange (2025)
AREAS OF MINISTRY: Lector and extraordinary minister of Holy Communion in St. Gabriel Church; visiting residents in Solana Nursing Home, Marlboro
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A VOCATION AS A DEACON? As a young man growing up in the Catholic faith, every Sunday afternoon my grandmother used to take me along with her to pray for the sick. I eventually developed a deep desire to serve the Church and the community which led me to join and become more involved with various community groups. In 2009, my family and I moved to Marlboro and became parishioners of St. Gabriel Parish where I served as a lector and extraordinary minister of Holy Communion. Through prayers I have discerned that the Lord is calling and guiding me to be a deacon to share his love and compassion with others.
VESTING PRIEST: Father Eugene Roberts, pastor of St. Gabriel Parish, Marlboro
Steven A. Griggs
SPONSORING PARISH: St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, Whiting
PLACE OF BIRTH/YEAR: Atlanta, Ga./1968
FAMILY: Wife, Teri; daughter, Nicole (39), son, Brian (36), son, Mike (33), daughter, Michelle (31), son, Ryan (30), daughter, Maddie (24); grandson, Sonny; parents, John and Delaney Griggs and Daniel and Robbye Miller
EMPLOYMENT: Senior director, sales and solutions engineering, Doodle Labs, Los Angeles, Calif.
EDUCATION: Mountainview Elementary School, Cobb County, Ga.; Stone Mountain High School, Stone Mountain, Ga.; studied electrical engineering technology at Thomas Nelson Community College (1996); studied business management/technology management at St. Leo University, St. Leo, Fla. (2004); master’s in systematic theology, Immaculate Conception Seminary at Seton Hall University, South Orange (2025)
CERTIFICATES/HONORS/TECHNICAL TRAINING: Diaconate certificate
AREAS OF MINISTRY: Rosary Group, serve as lector for Mass, serve as extraordinary minister of Holy Communion for several area nursing homes
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A VOCATION AS A DEACON? I feel like I was called after I received my full initiation into the Church after 2014. I began teaching religious education and RCIA (now OCIA) and I was asked by the pastor of my parish at the time if I’d consider the diaconate. I discerned for a bit before moving to New Jersey where I was asked again if I would consider the diaconate by two separate priests and a few parishioners. This feels like what God is asking of me, so here I am.
VESTING PRIEST: Father Evarist Kabagambe, pastor of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, Whiting
Christopher J. McNicholas
SPONSORING PARISH: St. Mary, Middletown
PLACE OF BIRTH/YEAR: Brooklyn, N.Y./1970
FAMILY: Wife, Kristine; son Joseph (21), daughter, Colleen (18); parents, John and Eveann McNicholas and Ana and Allen Guttenplan
EMPLOYMENT: Owner/sole proprietor, Beltech Network Consulting, LLC, Belford
EDUCATION: Eltingville Lutheran School, Staten Island, N.Y. (1979-1984); Staten Island Technical High School (1984-1988); bachelor of science in accounting, College of Staten Island, CUNY (1997); master of arts in systematic theology, Seton Hall University, South Orange (2025)
CERTIFICATES/HONORS/TECHNICAL TRAINING: Certified catechist, certificate in diaconal studies
AREAS OF MINISTRY: Faith formation instructor, middle school theology instructor, mentor for catechist certification formation, previous Adoration coordinator of Our Lady of the Most Blessed Sacrament Diocesan Shrine, pre-COVID extraordinary minister of Holy Communion to the homebound and assisted living facilities.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A VOCATION AS A DEACON? During the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (now Order of Christian Initiation of Adults), my mind, heart and soul opened up to the Lord. I felt the need to share the truth of the Gospels and sought out opportunities to do so. My interest has been in catechesis and I was called to the diaconate knowing that the education in the faith during formation and the Gifts of the Holy Spirit, I would receive at ordination would give me the knowledge, strength and confidence to be an effective catechist. My hope is to work with other catechists in the Diocese to develop and improve programs to better prepare the next generation of the faithful to understand the faith and to practice it and share it openly and unreservedly.
VESTING PRIEST: Father Jeffrey Kegley, pastor of St. Mary Parish, Middletown
Jeffrey B. Miceli
SPONSORING PARISH: Our Lady of Good Counsel, Moorestown
PLACE OF BIRTH/YEAR: Bellefonte, Pa./1960
FAMILY: Wife, Jacqueline; daughter, Meghan, 32; parents Charles and Jeanne Miceli (both deceased)
EMPLOYMENT: Partner/Attorney, Black & Gerngross, P.C., Philadelphia and Cherry Hill
EDUCATION: State College Area School District Easterly Parkway/Fairmount/Junior High School, State College, Pa. (1966-1973); State College Area High School, State College, Pa. (1974-1978); bachelor of science degree in operations management, The Pennsylvania State University (1978-1982); juris doctor, Villanova University, Villanova, Pa. (1986-1989); master of arts in systematic theology, Seton Hall University, South Orange (2025)
CERTIFICATES/HONORS/TECHNICAL TRAINING: Pope Francis Medal for Academic Excellence and Theta Alpha Kappa National Honor Society for Religious Studies and Theology, Immaculate Conception Seminary at Seton Hall University, South Orange (2025); certificate in pastoral ministry, La Salle University, Philadelphia, Pa. (2018)
AREAS OF MINISTRY: In Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish, serves with the Moorestown conference of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (vice president from October 2020-present); is a member of the Joseph of Arimathea Society in which he is an altar server for funeral Masses (2018-present). Serves as an extraordinary minister of Holy Communion for both the parish and for the Alzheimer’s unit at Harmony Village, Moorestown
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A VOCATION AS A DEACON? My father lived a life replete in service to God through everyday acts of kindness toward his neighbors. In considering his life, I was moved by how God’s gift of salvation is perfected through service. Years later, a homily on the Corporal Works of Mercy inspired me to become an extraordinary minister of Holy Communion. This led me to additional parish ministries, a pastoral ministry certificate, becoming a Vincentian and diaconate formation. In hindsight, each step along my spiritual path guided me closer to God and toward the diaconate. No doubt, the Holy Spirit was leading me – fortunately I followed.
VESTING PRIEST: Father James Grogan, pastor of Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish, Moorestown
John Vitale
SPONSORING PARISH: St. Gabriel, Marlboro
PLACE OF BIRTH/YEAR: Staten Island, N.Y./1968
FAMILY: wife, Alisa Vitale; daughter, Victoria Vitale, son, John Vitale; parents, Nicholas Vitale and Carole Vitale
EMPLOYMENT: Tax partner, Ernst & Young LLP; adjunct professor in the Gabelli Graduate School of Business at Fordham University, N.Y.
EDUCATION: P.S. #50 Frank Hankinson School, Staten Island, N.Y. and I.S. #24 Myra S. Barnes Intermediate School, Staten Island, N.Y. (1974-1982); New Dorp High School, Staten Island, N.Y. (1982-1986); bachelor of science degree in accounting, Brooklyn College, Brooklyn, N.Y. (1986-1991); master of science in taxation, Fordham University, New York City (1993-1994); juris doctorate, William Howard Taft University, Santa Ana, Calif. (2000-2004); master of arts in systematic theology, Seton Hall University, South Orange, (2021-2025)
CERTIFICATES/HONORS/TECHNICAL TRAINING: New York licensed certified public accountant; member of the California Bar; featured by Forbes 2025 Top CPAs in New York
AREAS OF MINISTRY: In St. Gabriel Parish, serves as a lector, extraordinary minister of Holy Communion, and with the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A VOCATION AS A DEACON? My discernment process before beginning my diaconate formation was a slow and protracted process. My wife and I had participated in several Bible study classes which sparked me to discern a vocation as a deacon, and the encouragement I received from my wife was the catalyst to begin formation. Serving in various roles including lector and extraordinary minister of Holy Communion also sparked my desire to serve. I would like to share God’s Word in a relatable way, particularly with our youth.
VESTING PRIEST: Father Eugene Roberts, pastor of St. Gabriel Parish, Marlboro
At Ordination, new deacons called to be united to Christ in service
Diocese to livestream Nov. 15 diaconate Mass of Ordination
Saturday, December 13, 2025
E-Editions
Events
After four years of preparation and study, nine men will be ordained Nov. 15 as permanent deacons for the Diocese of Trenton. Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., will confer the Sacrament of Holy Orders in St. Robert Bellarmine Co-Cathedral, Freehold, giving them the faculties to preach and preside over weddings, Baptisms, wakes and committals. The Mass of Ordination will begin at 10 a.m. and will be livestreamed on the diocesan Youtube Channel https://www.youtube.com/trentondiocese.
From various careers and life experiences, the men are all married with families. Their formation has included completing studies that are consistent with the intellectual norms established by the National Directory of Formation, Ministry and Life of Permanent Deacons in the United States. Following are the profiles of the men who have answered God’s call to serve the Church of Trenton.
Anthony C. Cullen
SPONSORING PARISH: St. Benedict, Holmdel
PLACE OF BIRTH/YEAR: Brooklyn, N.Y./1985
FAMILY: Wife, Anne Cullen; son, Brendan (16), daughter, Lily (14); parents, Josephine Cullen and Anthony R. Cullen (deceased)
EMPLOYMENT: Campus minister, St. Benedict Church and School, Holmdel; retired, FDNY – EMS Operations, New York City (2006-2013)
EDUCATION: St. Athanasius School, Brooklyn, N.Y. (1989-1999), Cathedral Preparatory Seminary, Elmhurst, N.Y. (1999-2003); bachelor of arts in liberal arts, Thomas Edison State University, Trenton (2020); associate’s degree in liberal arts, Kingsborough Community College, Brooklyn, N.Y. (2005), master of arts in systematic theology, Seton Hall University, South Orange (2021-2025)
CERTIFICATES/HONORS/TECHNICAL TRAINING: Theta Alpha Kappa, Theological Honor Society, Eagle Scout
AREAS OF MINISTRY: In St. Benedict Parish and School, served as middle school religion teacher, campus minister, lector, extraordinary minister of Holy Communion, Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults/Order of Christian Initiation of Adults; in St. Athanasius, Brooklyn, was an altar sever, lector, extraordinary minister of Holy Community; in St. Mary Parish, Middletown, was altar sever, sacristan, extraordinary minister of Holy Communion, lector, youth ministry
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A VOCATION AS A DEACON? I have always felt called to serve the Church and I have in various parishes. From the time I started as an altar server in Brooklyn as a fifth grader, to teaching religious education and bringing Holy Communion to hospital patients in high school, youth ministry, and now teaching the faith to middle schoolers, this has brought me joy and let me be passionate about being a Catholic.
VESTING PRIEST: Father Garry Koch, pastor of St. Benedict Parish, Holmdel
James D. de Poortere
SPONSORING PARISH: St. Catharine-St. Margaret Parish, Spring Lake
PLACE OF BIRTH/YEAR: Morristown/1966
FAMILY: Wife, Christine; son, John Michael (28), daughter, Grace (27), daughter, Margaret (25); parents, Robert and Maureen (both deceased)
EMPLOYMENT: Worldwide Video Products Lead, Hewlett Packard Inc., Palo Alto, Calif.
EDUCATION: St. Vincent Martyr, Madison (1980); Oratory Prep, Summit (1984); Rutgers University, New Brunswick (1984-1986); master of arts in systematic theology, Seton Hall University, South Orange (2021-2025)
AREAS OF MINISTRY: In Christ the King Parish, New Vernon, was a substitute religious education teacher and young adults ministry leader; In St. James Parish, Basking Ridge, was a CYO coach; in St. Catharine-St. Margaret Parish, serves as a sacristan, lector, acolyte
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A VOCATION AS A DEACON? I felt called to serve both Christ and his Church as a permanent deacon. This calling includes heralding the Gospel through works of service, mercy and by living the Gospel message. Inspired by my devotion to the Blessed Virgin’s steadfast faith, humble obedience and charity, her example continues to shape my prayer, family life and public witness. My Marian devotion fuels my lifelong pledge to work with the people of God as a guardian of service by bridging worship with concrete charity within our community.
VESTING PRIEST: Father Damian McElroy, pastor of St. Catharine- St. Margaret Parish, Spring Lake
Chris I. Ellis Jr.
SPONSORING PARISH: Holy Innocents, Neptune
PLACE OF BIRTH/YEAR: Washington, D.C./1987
FAMILY: Wife, Kathleen; daughter, Sydney, (10), daughter, Avery (8), daughter, Bailey (1); parents, Lori Ellis and Chris Ellis, Sr.
EMPLOYMENT: Attorney, Audacy, Inc., Philadelphia
EDUCATION: Thomas G. Pullen School, Landover, Md.; Suitland High School, Forestville, Md. (2005); bachelor of science, TV/Film, St. John’s University, Queens, N.Y. (2009); juris doctor, Rutgers University School of Law, Newark (2014); master of arts in systematic theology, Seton Hall University, South Orange (2025)
CERTIFICATES/HONORS/TECHNICAL TRAINING: Certificate in diaconal studies and Pope Francis Medal for Academic Excellence, Seton Hall University, (2025), Diocese of Trenton Certificate in Catechesis, Theta Alpha Kappa Honor Society, Omicron Delta Kappa Honor Society, Phi Eta Sigma Honor Society, 2023 LCLD Fellow, Vincentian Initiative to Advance Leadership
AREAS OF MINISTRY: Catechist, acolyte, lector, extraordinary minister of Holy Communion, in Holy Innocents; altar server, lector, youth choir, in Holy Comforter-St. Cyprian, Washington, D.C.; campus ministry, St. John’s University
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A VOCATION AS A DEACON? From a young age, I felt drawn to serve the Church through music, altar serving and ministry. Over time, this grew into a deeper call – not just to participate, but to share God’s Word and help others encounter him. In prayer and service, I have continually sensed the Lord asking me to do more. The permanent diaconate is my response to that call, uniting service and faith.
VESTING PRIEST: Father H. Todd Carter, pastor of Holy Innocents Parish, Neptune
Gerard (Gez) Ford
SPONSORING PARISH: St. David the King, Princeton Junction
PLACE OF BIRTH/YEAR: Manchester, U.K./1966
FAMILY: Wife, Nadine; children, Patrick (36), Kevin (34), Tori (32); grandchildren, Lewis, Vera, Theo, Pippa, Molly, Francis, Peter, Eleanor and David; parents, Deacon Tony and Mary Ford
EMPLOYMENT: Pastoral associate, St. David the King Parish, Princeton Junction
EDUCATION: St. Hugh of Lincoln, Timperley, Cheshire, England (1971-1978); St. Ambrose College, Hale Barns, Cheshire, England (1978-1983); bachelor of arts degree in theology and religious studies, Victorian University of Manchester, England (1991-1995); master of arts in systematic theology, Seton Hall University, South Orange (2021-2025)
CERTIFICATES/HONORS/TECHNICAL TRAINING: Certificate in diaconal studies, theology, philosophy, Church history, alcohol and addiction counseling credits, Theta Alpha (National Theological Honors Society), additional credits form Franciscan University of Steubenville, Ohio, St. John’s University, Queens, N.Y., and Fordham University, New York City (between 1995-2010)
AREAS OF MINISTRY: Music ministry, youth and young adult ministry, evangelization, Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, religious education; addiction services mostly in the Diocese of Trenton. Service in St. Raphael-Holy Angels Parish, Hamilton, for 20 years and St. David the King Parish since June 2025. Also led retreats and speaking at conferences in the United States and throughout Europe for more than 30 years
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A VOCATION AS A DEACON? During COVID-19, Nadine had encouraged me to explore diaconal discernment. I had been wondering what the Lord would do with his Church at that difficult time of lockdowns, etc. I sensed his response by asking me what I would do. This became my response to that invite!
VESTING PRIEST: Father Jason Parzynski, pastor of St. David the King Parish, Princeton Junction
Errol Giordani
SPONSORING PARISH: St. Gabriel, Marlboro
PLACE OF BIRTH/YEAR: Haiti/1964
FAMILY: wife, Michele; daughter, Alyssa, 24, son, Marc-Erol, 22, son, Sebastien, 21; parents, Emmanuel Giordani and Monime Giordani
EMPLOYMENT: Supervisor, Human Resources Administration, Staten Island, N.Y.
EDUCATION: Meyer Levin Junior High School, Brooklyn, N.Y. (1979); Samuel J. Tilden High School, Brooklyn, N.Y. (1983); bachelor of arts degree in psychology, Hunter College, New York City (1990), master of arts in systematic theology, Seton Hall University, South Orange (2025)
AREAS OF MINISTRY: Lector and extraordinary minister of Holy Communion in St. Gabriel Church; visiting residents in Solana Nursing Home, Marlboro
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A VOCATION AS A DEACON? As a young man growing up in the Catholic faith, every Sunday afternoon my grandmother used to take me along with her to pray for the sick. I eventually developed a deep desire to serve the Church and the community which led me to join and become more involved with various community groups. In 2009, my family and I moved to Marlboro and became parishioners of St. Gabriel Parish where I served as a lector and extraordinary minister of Holy Communion. Through prayers I have discerned that the Lord is calling and guiding me to be a deacon to share his love and compassion with others.
VESTING PRIEST: Father Eugene Roberts, pastor of St. Gabriel Parish, Marlboro
Steven A. Griggs
SPONSORING PARISH: St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, Whiting
PLACE OF BIRTH/YEAR: Atlanta, Ga./1968
FAMILY: Wife, Teri; daughter, Nicole (39), son, Brian (36), son, Mike (33), daughter, Michelle (31), son, Ryan (30), daughter, Maddie (24); grandson, Sonny; parents, John and Delaney Griggs and Daniel and Robbye Miller
EMPLOYMENT: Senior director, sales and solutions engineering, Doodle Labs, Los Angeles, Calif.
EDUCATION: Mountainview Elementary School, Cobb County, Ga.; Stone Mountain High School, Stone Mountain, Ga.; studied electrical engineering technology at Thomas Nelson Community College (1996); studied business management/technology management at St. Leo University, St. Leo, Fla. (2004); master’s in systematic theology, Immaculate Conception Seminary at Seton Hall University, South Orange (2025)
CERTIFICATES/HONORS/TECHNICAL TRAINING: Diaconate certificate
AREAS OF MINISTRY: Rosary Group, serve as lector for Mass, serve as extraordinary minister of Holy Communion for several area nursing homes
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A VOCATION AS A DEACON? I feel like I was called after I received my full initiation into the Church after 2014. I began teaching religious education and RCIA (now OCIA) and I was asked by the pastor of my parish at the time if I’d consider the diaconate. I discerned for a bit before moving to New Jersey where I was asked again if I would consider the diaconate by two separate priests and a few parishioners. This feels like what God is asking of me, so here I am.
VESTING PRIEST: Father Evarist Kabagambe, pastor of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, Whiting
Christopher J. McNicholas
SPONSORING PARISH: St. Mary, Middletown
PLACE OF BIRTH/YEAR: Brooklyn, N.Y./1970
FAMILY: Wife, Kristine; son Joseph (21), daughter, Colleen (18); parents, John and Eveann McNicholas and Ana and Allen Guttenplan
EMPLOYMENT: Owner/sole proprietor, Beltech Network Consulting, LLC, Belford
EDUCATION: Eltingville Lutheran School, Staten Island, N.Y. (1979-1984); Staten Island Technical High School (1984-1988); bachelor of science in accounting, College of Staten Island, CUNY (1997); master of arts in systematic theology, Seton Hall University, South Orange (2025)
CERTIFICATES/HONORS/TECHNICAL TRAINING: Certified catechist, certificate in diaconal studies
AREAS OF MINISTRY: Faith formation instructor, middle school theology instructor, mentor for catechist certification formation, previous Adoration coordinator of Our Lady of the Most Blessed Sacrament Diocesan Shrine, pre-COVID extraordinary minister of Holy Communion to the homebound and assisted living facilities.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A VOCATION AS A DEACON? During the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (now Order of Christian Initiation of Adults), my mind, heart and soul opened up to the Lord. I felt the need to share the truth of the Gospels and sought out opportunities to do so. My interest has been in catechesis and I was called to the diaconate knowing that the education in the faith during formation and the Gifts of the Holy Spirit, I would receive at ordination would give me the knowledge, strength and confidence to be an effective catechist. My hope is to work with other catechists in the Diocese to develop and improve programs to better prepare the next generation of the faithful to understand the faith and to practice it and share it openly and unreservedly.
VESTING PRIEST: Father Jeffrey Kegley, pastor of St. Mary Parish, Middletown
Jeffrey B. Miceli
SPONSORING PARISH: Our Lady of Good Counsel, Moorestown
PLACE OF BIRTH/YEAR: Bellefonte, Pa./1960
FAMILY: Wife, Jacqueline; daughter, Meghan, 32; parents Charles and Jeanne Miceli (both deceased)
EMPLOYMENT: Partner/Attorney, Black & Gerngross, P.C., Philadelphia and Cherry Hill
EDUCATION: State College Area School District Easterly Parkway/Fairmount/Junior High School, State College, Pa. (1966-1973); State College Area High School, State College, Pa. (1974-1978); bachelor of science degree in operations management, The Pennsylvania State University (1978-1982); juris doctor, Villanova University, Villanova, Pa. (1986-1989); master of arts in systematic theology, Seton Hall University, South Orange (2025)
CERTIFICATES/HONORS/TECHNICAL TRAINING: Pope Francis Medal for Academic Excellence and Theta Alpha Kappa National Honor Society for Religious Studies and Theology, Immaculate Conception Seminary at Seton Hall University, South Orange (2025); certificate in pastoral ministry, La Salle University, Philadelphia, Pa. (2018)
AREAS OF MINISTRY: In Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish, serves with the Moorestown conference of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (vice president from October 2020-present); is a member of the Joseph of Arimathea Society in which he is an altar server for funeral Masses (2018-present). Serves as an extraordinary minister of Holy Communion for both the parish and for the Alzheimer’s unit at Harmony Village, Moorestown
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A VOCATION AS A DEACON? My father lived a life replete in service to God through everyday acts of kindness toward his neighbors. In considering his life, I was moved by how God’s gift of salvation is perfected through service. Years later, a homily on the Corporal Works of Mercy inspired me to become an extraordinary minister of Holy Communion. This led me to additional parish ministries, a pastoral ministry certificate, becoming a Vincentian and diaconate formation. In hindsight, each step along my spiritual path guided me closer to God and toward the diaconate. No doubt, the Holy Spirit was leading me – fortunately I followed.
VESTING PRIEST: Father James Grogan, pastor of Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish, Moorestown
John Vitale
SPONSORING PARISH: St. Gabriel, Marlboro
PLACE OF BIRTH/YEAR: Staten Island, N.Y./1968
FAMILY: wife, Alisa Vitale; daughter, Victoria Vitale, son, John Vitale; parents, Nicholas Vitale and Carole Vitale
EMPLOYMENT: Tax partner, Ernst & Young LLP; adjunct professor in the Gabelli Graduate School of Business at Fordham University, N.Y.
EDUCATION: P.S. #50 Frank Hankinson School, Staten Island, N.Y. and I.S. #24 Myra S. Barnes Intermediate School, Staten Island, N.Y. (1974-1982); New Dorp High School, Staten Island, N.Y. (1982-1986); bachelor of science degree in accounting, Brooklyn College, Brooklyn, N.Y. (1986-1991); master of science in taxation, Fordham University, New York City (1993-1994); juris doctorate, William Howard Taft University, Santa Ana, Calif. (2000-2004); master of arts in systematic theology, Seton Hall University, South Orange, (2021-2025)
CERTIFICATES/HONORS/TECHNICAL TRAINING: New York licensed certified public accountant; member of the California Bar; featured by Forbes 2025 Top CPAs in New York
AREAS OF MINISTRY: In St. Gabriel Parish, serves as a lector, extraordinary minister of Holy Communion, and with the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A VOCATION AS A DEACON? My discernment process before beginning my diaconate formation was a slow and protracted process. My wife and I had participated in several Bible study classes which sparked me to discern a vocation as a deacon, and the encouragement I received from my wife was the catalyst to begin formation. Serving in various roles including lector and extraordinary minister of Holy Communion also sparked my desire to serve. I would like to share God’s Word in a relatable way, particularly with our youth.
VESTING PRIEST: Father Eugene Roberts, pastor of St. Gabriel Parish, Marlboro