Get to Know Deacon Jim

Name: Deacon Jim Morris

Title: Deacon

  1. Tell us a little about yourself

Married in 1975 in Wellnitz Hall to my wife Jean. St Brendan parishioner since 1992. We have 6 children and 3 (almost 4) grandchildren. I am a retired civil engineer. I worked mainly for government agencies (Ohio DNR, AZ Water Resources, United States Geological Survey) in the area of water resources. BS and MS in Civil Engineering from OSU. I was ordained a Permanent Deacon in 2005.

 

  1. Tell us about your role here.

I am currently assigned to St Brendan by the Bishop and primarily work in the diaconate roles of Word, Altar, and Charity. I assist at Mass, proclaim and preach the Gospel, perform Baptisms, Marriages, and Funeral liturgies.

I teach Baptism preparation classes, prepare couples for marriage, help out RCIA and other St Brendan ministries as requested. I oversee the Inviting Catholics Home program also.

And, of course, any other duties as assigned.

 

  1. How did you come to work at St Brendan’s?

Jean and I have always performed whatever roles we could here since we joined the parish in 1992. Many of our children went to school here. Jean is a Master Catechist and is still teaching on Monday nights. Jean and I helped start both the Cub Scout Pack and Boy Scout Troop in the 1990s. I didn’t really apply for the job as Deacon (not really a job now is it?) but the St Brendan community certainly has been very supportive, as have the Pastor(s), other priests, and Deacons over the years. I just celebrated the 14th anniversary of my ordination at the end of January.

 

  1. What is the best part of your job here?

I always tell folks that Baptisms are the very best, on top of being the initial Sacrament of our faith, there are babies and everyone is happy. Great fun. Really I enjoy all the things I do because the community—and our Catholic Faith—are awesome.

 

  1. What is your favorite thing to do on weekends?

Well, since I retired all days are weekends really. I like to read and I greatly enjoy the time I now have to study more. Obviously, family and especially grandkids are great fun. I have a few more renovation projects to complete at the house and I enjoy that work too.

 

  1. Favorite book:

Almost any military science fiction

 

  1. Favorite movie:

Last Starfighter

 

  1. Favorite Saint(s):

St. Stephen and St. Lawrence of course

 

  1. Go-to snack:

chips mostly

 

  1. Tell us what you’re proud of.

My family, all great people

 

  1. What is the first thing you do when you wake up?

Grumble, then take a shower

 

  1. Tell us anything else you think we should know! Or any fun facts you have about yourself.

Nothing that exciting