Dcn. John Johnson Retiring

Deacon John Johnson presented farewell remarks to the Calvary Cemetery Board of Trustees Tuesday morning and expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve as CEO of the Catholic Cemetery Association and Executive Director of Calvary Cemetery. 
Johnson will officially retire from his position on Oct. 10. A new director has been hired and will be announced next week.

“As I stand before you today, my heart is filled with gratitude,” said Dcn. Johnson in his remarks to the board. “It has been one of the greatest privileges of my life to serve God's people through the sacred ministry of our Catholic Cemetery System.”

He said from the beginning that he understood his calling was not simply as an administrative role, but as a vocation — a way to live out the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy. 
“Together, we have comforted those who mourn, buried the dead with dignity, and offered spaces of prayer and remembrance that lift hearts in the hope of the Resurrection,” said Dcn. Johnson. “While I cannot claim perfection, I can say that each day in this ministry has been driven by the desire to keep the faith and to serve Christ through those who entrusted their loved ones to our care.”

Looking back, Dcn. Johnson said he was proud of what has been accomplished including not only preserving the sacred traditions of Tulsa’s Catholic cemetery, but also of a laying firm foundation for the future. He said Calvary Cemetery has been positioned to thrive based on comprehensive master plans, development of new memorial gardens, and strengthening of the pre-need sales program.

“As I prepare to pass the mantle of leadership, I do so with great confidence,” said Dcn. Johnson. “The momentum is strong, and I look forward with joy to seeing how new leadership will continue to build on this foundation.”

Johnson was ordained to the Permanent Diaconate in 2007, served as Chancellor for the Diocese for several years, then took over leadership of Calvary Cemetery in 2016.
He concluded; “As I retire, I will continue to carry this ministry in my heart and prayers. Thank you for entrusting me with the stewardship of this sacred place. May God, who has begun this good work among us, continue to bless it so that it prospers and grows and always brings comfort to those who mourn and glory to His Holy Name.” 

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