Geoff Schmitt and his wife, Debbi are parishioners of Immaculate Conception Parish and they have five children. After retiring from a 36-year career with the United States Postal Service, Geoff went on to earn a certificate in pastoral ministry from the University of Portland in 2012. Entering the diaconate has been on his mind since the 1980s, and over the years he has worked with a series of priests at his parish who have been supportive of his calling - Fathers Panneer Selvam, Steve Geer and Ed Coleman.

"I felt like I was being called to do something more," Schmitt said. "Each time I volunteered at the church, it felt good, but there was a yearning to do something more."

As 33-year Oregon resident, Deacon Geoff has discovered how enriching it can be to teach his faith through adult faith formation. Training for pastoral ministry has also changed him in other ways, enhancing his prayer life and relationships.

"I used to be a numbers person, but since I've been in this process, I've been much more satisfied in dealing with people than numbers on a page," he said.

Preparing to enter the diaconate has also enriched his knowledge and view of the church and its ministries. But the old adage holds true: "The more I learn, the more I realize I don't know," Schmitt laughed. He looks forward to continuing his education through service to his Catholic community.