We are excited to welcome Brother Cole Dryden, O.S.M., who will be serving as a transitional deacon with St. Josaphat Parish and School and St. Alphonsus Parish and School during the coming year.
Originally from Los Angeles, California, Brother Cole grew up in a family of six with his parents and three siblings. His journey of faith and service has been central to his life for as long as he can remember. He recently graduated from the Catholic Theological Union in Hyde Park and is a member of the Order of Friar Servants of Mary (Servites).
Before entering full-time ministry, Brother Cole spent two years working as a teacher aide with students with autism and other learning disabilities in the Los Angeles area. He also served as a volunteer catechist, teaching fourth-grade students and preparing them for First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion.
During his year of diaconal ministry, Brother Cole will serve alongside Fr. Brett at both St. Josaphat and St. Alphonsus, assisting with liturgies, faith formation programs, school ministry, and other pastoral opportunities. He will be ordained a transitional deacon on Sunday, October 4, 2026, and plans to continue toward priestly ordination following his year of diaconal ministry.
Brother Cole is especially looking forward to accompanying people on their faith journey and learning what it means to serve as a deacon through the charism of the Servites. He brings a love of teaching, a deep knowledge of the Catholic faith, a listening ear, an open heart, and a willingness to learn and serve.
One of Brother Cole’s favorite spiritual role models is St. Augustine of Hippo, particularly Augustine’s emphasis on community and living together with “one heart and mind.” His favorite Scripture passage reflects that same spirit:
“The community of believers was of one heart and mind and had everything in common.”
— Acts 4:32
Outside of ministry, Brother Cole enjoys cooking and baking, and his favorite vacation destination is the San Diego area.
As Brother Cole begins this new chapter of ministry with us, he has one simple invitation for our community: come say hello! He describes himself as approachable and looks forward to getting to know the people of both St. Josaphat and St. Alphonsus.
As he puts it, “I bring with me to my time in ministry with you, a listening ear, an open heart, a willingness to learn, and a desire to accompany you on your faith journey. I, as a Servite friar who desires to imitate Christ the Servant Lord, am at your service.”
Please join us in welcoming Brother Cole to the St. Josaphat and St. Alphonsus communities!