In her 49 years as a faithful parishioner here at Holy Apostles, Deborah Washington has been so blessed to serve in numerous capacities both inside and outside of the church walls.
“I serve because of my love of God,” Deborah says. “My desire is to share this experience with all those I encounter so that they may feel the joys I live daily, knowing Christ’s passion He endured because of His love for us to have redemption for our sins and the true path of the Kingdom of God.”
Deborah first became involved with the Catholic Outreach to Our Neighbors in Ukraine. But she recalls becoming more spiritually involved in the community after sharing a witness presentation on her spiritual journey at the parish’s Welcome Retreat in 2016.
Following that “powerful realization” of her love of Christ, Deborah says, she since became involved in nearly a dozen ministries in our parish — from liturgical ministries such as Sacristans and Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion to Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, outreach and prayer ministries, and more. She also serves as President of the St. Vincent de Paul Society at our parish.
“I just recently signed on staff as Manager of Children of Light Atrium for the Mater Filius home opening on the grounds of St. Gabriel Parish,” Deborah says. “However I’m still and always will be a Holy Apostles parishioner and continue my service here.”
In her service to the Church, Deborah most enjoys the closeness to Christ she experiences when giving of her time, talent, and treasure.
“And I enjoy seeing Him in each person I encounter and the reciprocal joy I see in their eyes,” she says.
Deborah strives in many ways to live out her faith on a daily basis. She attends Mass, receives the Body and Blood of Christ, and keeps her rosary nearby.
“My rosaries are on my side daily to use in daily prayers no matter where I’m at,” she says. “I’m truly and unapologetically a Catholic Christian! Anyone that encounters me I hope can feel the joy of prayer, the joy of faith, the joy of Christ’s love illuminating and bringing them joy.”
When experiencing discomfort or negativity, Deborah takes her rosary in her hand and prays through it.
“I’ve had people around me see me pray in those moments and it even opens up conversation,” she says. “I briefly engage in delightful conversation with them, and continue to pray.”