Deacon John DeGano

Ordained in May 2005, Deacon John De Gano is no stranger to most at St. Catherine of Alexandria. With his wife Cheryl, they have been parishioners since 1992, serving principally through the Ministry of Social Concerns (and, prior to diaconate formation as members of the RCIA team). They also minister together with Baptismal Preparation, Life Teen and Faith Formation. 

Deacon John served as the Diocesan Archivist (1999 – 2005) and authored the Diocese of San Bernardino’s 25^th Anniversary book entitled, ‘1978-2003: A Journey of Hope”. 

He holds a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from CSU, Fresno, and when he isn’t writing, he likes to read, travel, create art, solve Suduko puzzles, and share experiences of Jesus Christ with others, especially young people. 

Deacon John attempts to daily live out his personal mission statement ‘to encourage and reconcile,’ by sharing God’s love through preaching, by welcoming the stranger, and through the joyful celebration of the blessing of throats and the blessing of the animals.

Blessing of the Animals
Scheduled for Sept. 29, 2007

The annual Blessing of the Animals will be held on the front steps of St. Catherine of Alexandria church in Riverside, California beginning at 9 a.m. on Saturday morning.

Deacon John will lead the joyful prayer service for our furry, scaly and feathered friends in recognition of St. Francis of Assisi who embodied our Catholic Social Teaching on Care for God’s Creation.

All are welcome to come and participate in song, prayer and praise to our heavenly Creator for his marvelous works.

“If we can bless ‘em, you can bring ‘em!”


Photo caption: Waiting for St. Francis?
This squirrel seems to be recovering from an evening of partying, but looks can be deceiving. He is really saving his energy for the annual Blessing of the Animals on the steps of St. Catherine of Alexandria Church on Sept. 29, 2007.