While I have a list of my favorite saints, my ministry as a deacon at St. John the Baptist and St. Mary parishes in Monroe has opened my eyes to the little saints that faithfully, day in and day out, strive their best to be a Catholic in a culture and world filled with so many demands and responsibilities. For me, being in the parishes since June after my diaconate ordination, I have been inspired by two groups of little saints. The first are the parishioners who I see at daily Mass, day in and day out, regardless of weather and even regardless of the demands of our pandemic. Their faith and love for Jesus and the Eucharist are truly inspiring to me. The second group includes the outstanding administrators of our schools at St. Mary’s and Monroe Catholic Elementary Schools. Our president and principals work tirelessly with all the countless demands and responsibilities their job entails, with joy and faith. Amidst the difficulties of social distancing, masks and trying to make difficult decisions regarding student safety and health during a time of pandemic, they are passionate and dedicated tirelessly to raising their families, and always committed to the mission of evangelization and education. These two groups of people, among many others, are the saints in my life that inspire, encourage me and give me hope that there are little saints all around us. - DEACON ZAID CHABAN, ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST AND ST. MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH, MONROE
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The little “S” saint in my life is Father Norman Thomas. His homilies continue to remind us of God’s grace and mercy and consistently reminds us to strive to be like Jesus — especially when it comes to being an advocate for the poor and those often overlooked by society. There are different ways for us to become more Christ-like; Father Thomas seems to know them all and diligently tries to match those ways with the gifts of each member of his parishes. Whether it be with a kind email, a soft word of encouragement, a gentle nudge or hard push, Father Thomas encourages and wants us to cultivate, nourish and blossom in our relationship with God. Another little “S” saint is Molly Peterson, teacher at Most Holy Trinity. I have had the fortune of both my sons being educated by Ms. Peterson. The passion and love she exhibits toward the children of the school are amazing. When schools went virtual earlier this year, Ms. Peterson would record herself reading a children’s book and send the families a link. That helped bring a sense of normalcy to an extremely abnormal situation. My family will forever be grateful. - CHE BRIAN PETERSON, SACRED HEART CATHOLIC CHURCH, DETROIT
MELISSA MOON, PHOTOGRAPHER
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