Deacon Jose R. Diaz

It came as a surprise to no one when Deacon Jose R. Diaz, a member of Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Perth Amboy, began studying for the diaconate. The fervent Catholic had already dedicated himself to ministering to anyone open to the Good News.
 

Born in Perth Amboy, he was one of three children of Juan and Dulce Diaz. Deacon Diaz attended the city’s Holy Trinity Catholic School and after graduating from Perth Amboy High School, he studied at Middlesex County College, Edison.
 

Deacon Diaz was active at his parish before he began formation to the diaconate. He served as an extraordinary minister of holy Communion, lector and coordinator for ushers.
 

“I am passionate about working with youth and take every opportunity in sharing the Good News,” he continued.
 

From 2009-2011, he ministered to Our Lady of Fatima youth in the “Spirit and Truth” young adult ministry, then transitioned to the role of youth ministry founder and coordinator of the parish’s J.R.I.C. Ministry (Jovenes Rooted in Christ) for the past dozen years.

His leadership is not limited to the youth of the United States. “I do missionary work wherever the Lord leads me,” Deacon Diaz continued. Beginning last year, he has worked with people of all ages in the Dominican Republic through his Divine Mercy Missionary Ministry.
 

“I enjoy visiting the elderly at a food pantry and sharing dinner with them along with the Gospel message,” he said. “I directed an encounter with the youth and young adults, and ministered to them throughout various towns within the city of Azua. I also visited the sick at their homes to spend time with them and share the Eucharist and Gospel. These are remote areas where priests may come only once every two weeks or so… there are no priests to be able to celebrate Mass in these rural areas.”
 

Deacon Diaz completed his diaconate training at Immaculate Conception Seminary, Seton Hall University, South Orange, and was ordained to the permanent diaconate May 14. His vesting priest was Father Alberto Ruiz, former pastor of Our Lady of Fatima Parish. Illustrating that service and love of the Lord runs in the family, the deacon was ordained alongside his cousin, Sergio Diaz.
 

Deacon Diaz works as an EDI Coordinator at United Legwear and Apparel Company, is a professional photographer and enjoys bowling.
 

He and his wife, Alitza, have two daughters, Kiera and Nichole.