November 20, 2009
People of Faith
Deacon says pray often, get down on your knees
This is the ninth in a series on the new deacons of the diocese. They were ordained August 15 at St. Benedict Cathedral in Evansville.
Deacon Phillip Pierpont, 67, is doing his diaconal service at his home parish, Sacred Heart in Vincennes, and at St. Philip Neri, Bicknell.
Pierpont retired in 2008 from Vincennes University. During his 37-year career there, he was deputy provost for academic affairs and an English professor. Altogether, he taught for 44 years.
He and his wife, Lucille, have one adult son.
A native of Baltimore, Pierpont got his Ph.D in 1972 from Southern Illinois University. He received his master’s degree in 1966 from the University of Scranton and he got his bachelor’s degree in 1964 from Loyola University of Maryland.
What prompted you to pursue this ministry? “I had considered it in 2000 but job situation prevented it. Wanted to do more than a lay minister; wanted to preach; had thought about priesthood in younger days.”
Tell us a few things about yourself: Grew up as one of four sons in Baltimore, “where we all went to Catholic schools. We were lucky in that respect,” he said. Involved in track and baseball in high school and college. Took guitar lessons but teacher said he “didn’t practice enough.” Also took voice lessons. That went much better. He sings in the choir. He also enjoys writing, is currently writing the 100-year anniversary bookof Sacred Heart Parish in Vincennes.
Who has been the biggest influence in your life? My mother. She knew “I had something on the ball. She had more confidence in me than I did.”
Also his mentor, Father Henry St. Clair Lavin at the University of Scranton. “He was the first to challenge me intellectually; he really inspired me.”
What are your goals as a deacon? His No. 1 goal “is to be a good deacon.” He wants to be a much better preacher than I am now. I want to preach to inspire people.” Another goal is to be more willing to help without being judgmental.
Do you have any favorite books you would recommend to others? Theologian Kevin Irwin’s “Models of the Eucharist.” He also likes Guerric DeBona’s “Fulfilled in Our Hearing.” He used it as he worked on his homily August 15 at Sacred Heart and St. Philip Neri. Other favorites are Dennis Lehane’s “Mystic River” and “Gone, Baby, Gone.” Favorite mystery writers include John Sandford, David Baldacci and Daniel Silva.
Do you have any routines in your spiritual life that you would recommend to others? “Pray often. It doesn’t hurt to get down on your knees in the morning. We need to remind ourselves to be humble.” “Liturgy of the Hours” is a daily prayer.
Email steve@themessageonline.org