I have worked in social services, in education, and in law. I hold academic degrees and a law degree, but living life, loving, writing, and having faith have been my best teachers.

In 2012, my wife Vivian’s struggle with moderate dementia intensified. I needed to reduce my long commute to work, so I changed jobs so I could be closer to home. I was also pursuing a call to become a deacon in the Episcopal Church. Two years after I was ordained within the Episcopal Diocese of Western Massachusetts, in May 2017, I retired from my legal career and took a leave of absence from the Diocese to devote myself to Vivian and her care.

I had no control over when to retire from over 44 years of professional work and professional caring for others. It was out of my hands. Vivan needed me 24/7. Alzheimer’s became our undesired third partner; we called it Al. 

I began to journal about our journey, and my writing became a salvation—not only for me, but, over time, for others. Vivian died on November 21, 2021, and, in January 2018, I began penning my stories and reflections in communications called Deacon Pat “Unplugged.” At first, my messages were posted on the Facebook page for the Episcopal Diocese of Western Massachusetts; in June 2022, the Diocese began to send them out via email. Through this daily prayer ministry, I tell stories—about Vivian, my cat Hank, something I saw out my window, whatever resonates. I bring my musings and messages of hope to many people who follow me. (You can sign up to follow me, too.)

Now, my ministry is evolving into my book about Vivian and a new Diocesan program called Comfort and Hope for Care Partners Living with Unending Stress, which is intended to provide support to care partners living with the stress that comes with a chronic and/or terminal illness. 

I have served as a deacon in two diocesan parishes, The Episcopal Church of the Atonement in Westfield, Massachusetts, and Christ the King-Epiphany in Wilbraham, Massachusetts, and I’ve recently been appointed to St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in East Longmeadow, Massachusetts. I am a member of the Diocesan Board of Examining Chaplains, chair of the Disciplinary Board, and a member of the Diocesan Council. 

I feel honored to carry out my diaconal ministry through prayer and reflection, and I hope I can touch your life in a positive way.