Deacon Bradley Brooks was ordained to the diaconate for the diocese of Lubbock on September 7, 2019. He and his wife, Conda have been parishioners of Holy Spirit Catholic Parish for 22 years. Taryn and Tabor, their adult children serve alongside their parents as Eucharistic ministers, as well as serving in other ministries. The Brooks family appreciate the friendliness and openness of Holy Spirit parish where everyone has an opportunity to take part in the various parish ministries and activities. They are grateful to all who give of their time, talent, and treasure to support HSCP. The Brooks’ family moto, “as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15 is an inspiration to many parishioners.
Deacon Brad is self-employed at Brooks Family Dentistry and enjoys ministering to the homeless, serving in various HSCP ministries, and working with detainees at a chemical dependency center. He enjoys outdoor sports, hunting, fishing, shooting sporting clays, and spending time with family. He discerned his vocation through prayer and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. His favorite scripture is John 6:35, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will never thirst.”
During Deacon Brad’s homily on The Word of God Sunday, he encouraged us to make a special intention to read the Bible during the week. Sharing more insight into the when and why of today’s first reading from Isaiah, we learned how God prepared Israel’s leader for the physical and political victory at Midian in 700 BC. He also pointed to the spiritual warfare present then just as it is in our world today. Seeking direction and obeying God’s Word gave Israel freedom to follow God and realize the restoration of their lost joy.
In the Joy of the Gospel, Pope Francis encourages reflection on joy in our life and how we live out God’s call to bring joy to it? God will restore joy where there is hope. The fishermen in the Gospel followed Jesus because they believed he was God. Deacon Brad encouraged us to follow Jesus. He suggested three questions we could ask God as we receive the Holy Eucharist, we read his Word, and when we pray.
“God, what is your plan for my life?”
“God, what is your will for my heart?”
“God, what is your purpose for my life?”