Appointments of the new Permanent Deacons
On Sunday 26th October last, I was delighted to ordain five more Permanent Deacons for ministry in the diocese. Our new deacons are most welcome to the diocesan family and they will take up their appointments this coming weekend (22nd/23rd November).
Jody Callan is appointed to Naas, Sallins, Two Mile House and the Pastoral Area which includes Kill
John Delaney is appointed to Abbeyleix, Ballinakill & Raheen and the Pastoral Area which includes Ballyadams, Stradbally, Portlaoise, Ballyfin & Mountrath
Sebastian Kopijka isappointedto Mountmellick and the Pastoral Area which includes Rosenallis, Clonaslee, Portarlington & Emo
Michal Mizgala is appointed to Kill and the Pastoral Area which includes Naas, Sallins, Two Mile House
Declan Prendergast is appointed to Kildare and the Pastoral Area which includes Monasterevin & Rathangan
The first named parish is the lead parish in relation to each deacon’s appointment. Appointing each one of them to a Pastoral Area shows the importance of working together, collaboratively.
The diaconate is an ordained ministry which is rooted in scripture. The essence of the ministry of deacons is to serve those in our community who are poor and overlooked, whatever form their poverty may take. I often remind deacons that their ministry is to those on the margins. With regard to liturgy and sacraments, a deacon can baptise, preside at marriages and funerals, along with assisting the priest at the celebration of the Eucharist, including proclaiming the gospel and preaching.
I wish the new deacons every blessing in their ministry and I know they will be heartily welcomed wherever they serve.
+Denis
20 November 2025Â Â