Looking forward to serving where God wants me

By Bob De Witt

Frank Bursic’s faith led him to the formation process to become a deacon, which, in turn, brought him closer to Jesus, preparing him to serve the people of God.

“Through formation I found a deeper, richer prayer life which led me to a deeper, more fulfilling spiritual life and a true personal relationship with Jesus Christ,” he said.

“Realizing in my brokenness, I am so loved by God that he raises me up if I surrender myself to his will.”

The five-year formation process provides a strong foundation for personal growth, spiritual devotion, intellectual enhancement and pastoral practice.

On June 13, 2020, Deacon Bursic was one of eight men ordained as permanent deacons for the Diocese of Pittsburgh. Effective July 1, he is assigned to the Ministry of Sacrament and the Ministry of Word at Holy Family Parish, Oakmont/Plum/Verona and to the Ministry of Service and Charity at Holy Family Parish.

Deacons are ordained ministers with a special calling to perform works of charity and service, proclaim the word of God, and assist in the liturgical and sacramental life of the Church. They coordinate their part-time ministry with job and family responsibilities.

Bursic, 61, is a global energy consultant and partner with InRoads International LLC, which serves the commercial nuclear power market. He and his wife Karen are parents to three adult children, and have two sons-in-law and a granddaughter.

His home parish is Christ the Divine Shepherd, Monroeville/Penn Hills/Pitcairn. Bursic lives not far from where he grew up with his parents and three sisters, attending St. Joseph School in Verona, Penn Hills High School and the University of Pittsburgh.

Pastoral assignments during diaconate formation included jail and hospital ministry, feeding the hungry and working with intellectually disabled adults.

Many challenges lie ahead as the diocese continues its On Mission for The Church Alive! revitalization effort. Bursic is eager to get to work.

“I look forward to serving wherever God wants me,” he said.

“Deacons will continue to play an important role in being On Mission.”

Click here to meet the other new deacons.