Deacon Jerry Durchholz says Cursillo weekend changed his life

Deacon Jerry Durchholz said a Cursillo weekend changed the trajectory of his life. He is one of 16 men ordained to the permanent diaconate on Aug. 8 at St. Benedict Cathedral in Evansville.

Durchholz is assigned to Good Shepherd Parish in Evansville. He stated he had not considered becoming a deacon until he was asked twice in 2022, shortly before the 2026 permanent diaconate class began. On one occasion, Deacon Bill Blanke, who was also ordained in 2026 and assigned to Good Shepherd Parish, asked him about the vocation. His wife, Jeannine, also asked why he wanted to serve. Durchholz said he decided to enter the program because he believed Jesus would make his intentions clear.