The word deacon originates from the Greek word “diakonos,” which means to serve. Deacons are Roman Catholic men who are ordained as members of the Catholic clergy. Their  purpose is to be of service.

Currently, Riordan has three deacons: Deacon Joe, Deacon Chris, and Deacon Iwan. Each of these deacons is of great service to the Riordan community, not only in their participation in Riordan’s church services, but also in their work in classrooms, clubs, and Campus Ministry.

Deacon Joe is a religious studies instructor, while Deacon Chris is a Campus Ministry associate who supports logistics, events, drives, and the LIFE, CORE, and Liturgy teams.

Deacon Chris stated, “We are in the process of creating an entry level team for the Soph/Fresh divisions called SALT,” an opportunity to work with the three other teams. 

Finally, Deacon Iwan works in Riordan’s finance office, but he is also the co-moderator of the Chess Club and teaches chess at summer camp.

Other than that, these three deacons assist the Bishop or priest during Mass. They can also administer the sacrament of baptism, perform pastoral visits for the sick, officiate in the Catholic marriage ceremony, and bless the rosary.

Deacon Iwan said, “I became a deacon because I want to serve God. God has given me everything, and it is time to return it to Him by serving Him.”