JACKSON – Bishop Joseph Kopacz ordained seven men to the permanent diaconate for the Diocese of Jackson on July 18, 2026 at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle in Jackson. In the following profiles, the new deacons share their vocation stories, the people and experiences that shaped their faith, and their hopes for serving the people of the diocese.

DEACON PABLO GARCIA
Assigned: St. Francis of Assisi, New Albany
Spouse: Isabel Garcia
Hometown: New Albany

Were you raised Catholic, or did you convert to the faith? Raised Catholic

Can you share a moment or journey that deepened your faith or drew you closer to the Church? It was in a very specific moment in front of Holy Sacrament. I asked Him “Lord how may I serve you?” and His way is always perfect. He answered me with this blessing which is the theology that I have been acquiring for the last 5 years. I give thanks in first place to God and the diocese of Jackson and all involved, that have given me this opportunity to grow and learn in this formation of faith. Also, to be able to participate in the service at church and to be able to serve all of His community and to grow in faith towards Him. And I ask Him for wisdom and grace to be able to do His work.

Would you share your vocation story – how did you get called to the diaconate? Yes I would. First, I was called on be half of a priest, to serve the community. After 5 years he told me that he had an invitation for me to participate in the diaconate, that I had to be ready. For this he had already put me in service in specific tasks. Thanks to God the opportunity was give for me to begin. And on behalf of Deacon John McGregor and Bishop Jose Kopaz that gave me this opportunity to be in the formation of faith.

Where do you feel most called to serve as a deacon? Preaching. I feel that when I read the Gospel that He is calling me to preach the words that he wants me to say. The words come to my mind and the thoughts flow through my head very easily to be able to explain the Gospel.

How has your parish community supported you on this journey? The community has been very supportive. And they are always giving me hope. They also give me thanks for putting time in for God. They tell me they are always praying for me and I tell them thank you. I also mention that I am praying for them frequently.

What has been most challenging or surprising during this journey? For me the most challenging has been my English because I do not speak it perfectly. But I pray to God for that wisdom and knowledge so I can for take his message that He wants me to take.

What would you say to someone who might be feeling called to the diaconate? If they are feeling the calling, I would tell them, if you like to serve others don’t think twice. Search for help in his diocese because in every diocese there is always plenty of knowledgeable people that are willing to prepare someone that wants to be a deacon or priest. And that he should pray a lot to the Holy Eucharist for him to make a good decision. Because this is the best path to take and there is no other like it.

Do you have a favorite Scripture passage and why? Juan 1:1 because he is the creation and through Him with have the bridge to go to the promised kingdom.

Who is your favorite saint and why? San Juan Maria Vianney. Because he is a very humble saint. That in his life he worked very hard for the conversion of the sinners. His work was so exceptional that everyone recognized him. And because he is the patron of the priest. He did a lot for the Holy Eucharist so people could recognize Jesus in the Eucharist and unit them with Him.

Do you have a favorite religious image or devotion and why? Virgen Mary. Because when I see her image, it reminds me of my mother. In every mother is the creation of God, because every woman has that gift of life and came make it possible through God. Just like Mary gave birth to Jesus.

What is your favorite liturgy of the year and why? Holy Saturday. This is when the whole church is renewed.

What is something people might be surprised to learn about you? That every month I go to Jackson and that I have been doing it for 5 years. They are surprised that I go every month. I tell them that only through the grace of God I am able to do so.

Any children? Bernardo Garcia, Irbin Garcia

Deacon’s wives questions:

Isabel Garcia

What did you think when your husband first began to consider ordination? If God have given him the calling, I was no one to stop him.

How has this journey shaped your marriage and your family life? It is better than before.

How has your parish supported your family during this time? It has helped a lot, with advice and prayer.

What has been most challenging or surprising during this journey? To be by myself.

Do you have a favorite Scripture passage and why? Juan 6: 51 because though Him he was manifested in the Eucharist that gives us eternal life.

Who is your favorite saint and why?

Padre Pio. For his wisdom and his surrendering to the Lord.

Do you have a favorite religious image or devotion and why?

Divine Mercy. For its promises and His love to His children through His mercy.

What is your favorite liturgy of the year and why?

Resurrection of Jesus Christ.  Because he leaves us a reminder that one day we will be resurrected to eternity, like He promised to us.