After four years of preparation, study, and prayer, Jim de Poortere ’84 was ordained a permanent deacon for the Diocese of Trenton on November 15 at St. Robert Bellarmine Co-Cathedral in Freehold. Bishop David M. O’Connell conferred the Sacrament of Holy Orders, granting Deacon de Poortere the faculties to preach and assist in weddings, Baptisms, wakes, and committals.
A native of Morristown, Jim was sponsored by St. Catharine–St. Margaret Parish in Spring Lake, where he had faithfully served as a sacristan, lector, and acolyte. His call to the diaconate grew from a deep desire to serve Christ and His Church through works of service, mercy, and charity, inspired by his devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Jim graduated from Oratory Prep in 1984 and went on to earn a master’s degree in systematic theology from Seton Hall University. Throughout his faith journey, he also served in parish ministries as a religious education teacher, young adult ministry leader, and CYO coach.
He shared this milestone with his wife, Christine, and their children, John Michael, Grace, and Margaret. Jim’s ordination marked the beginning of a new chapter of service, rooted in faith and dedicated to strengthening the Church and the communities he serves.
This article appeared in the February 2026 issue of Fidelitas: The Alumni Newsletter of Oratory Prep. To read the latest issue, visit www.oratoryprep.org/fidelitas.