On Sunday 26th of 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 (22 nd /23 rd 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 is appointed to 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 Nulty