Deacon Roger Novak

Deacon Roger grew up on the south side of Chicago — attended and graduated from the University of Illinois in 1973 — where he met and married his bride Maureen in 1974.  Roger and his wife Maureen moved from Tinley Park to Naperville in 1986 — two years before Roger became a Catholic in 1988.  Afterwards, he became immediately involved in the various ministries offered at Saints Peter & Paul — leading to his ordination as a permanent deacon in 2007.  During his time as a deacon, he was also a hospital chaplain for 10 years at St. Joseph Medical Center in Joliet.  

Roger has always remained active — playing right wing for the "Rebels" in the World Hockey Association — running 26 marathons — and was president of the Newman Center at UIC and the Tinley Park Jaycees.  

Roger remains actively involved at all of our parish activities.  Roger & Maureen will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary this year on St. Patrick's Day.

What is your favorite part of your diaconal ministry at SSPP?  
"I am honored and humble in serving our parish in my many ministries.  Baptisms and funerals are my favorites — participating at both the births into the Church — and the births into eternal life."