Deacon Rich never expected his path to lead here, exactly—but that’s often how God works. After years of family-life ministry at St. Mary’s in Littleton and before that, as an elementary school teacher, he recently began a new chapter, serving the women at Samaritan House 48th as an employment navigator. It’s a practical role—helping women with resumes, job applications, interviews—but for Deacon Rich, it’s also deeply spiritual.
From the very first week, something sacred started unfolding. While offering guidance on employment opportunities, several women noticed his vestments. Quietly, one by one, they’d ask him for a blessing.
“It reminded me that even in the middle of navigating employment, there is this hunger for hope—real, holy hope,” said Deacon Rich.
One moment recently moved him. He’d been working with a participant, helping her land a job in the welding industry. They had spent time practicing for the interview that she ended up securing, and eventually, she was offered the job. In order to start, she needed work boots. After making a few calls to community partners, Deacon Rich finally connected her with the very last boots this organization had – they happened to be just her size.
These small but powerful interactions are reminders that Christ is present in the everyday grind, in the steps these women take toward self-sufficiency and in their quiet faith as they rebuild.
Samaritan House 48th is part of the larger Samaritan House community of shelters, operated by Catholic Charities of Denver. Located in the Globeville neighborhood, the shelter provides safe shelter and supportive services for single women experiencing homelessness.
Looking ahead, Deacon Rich is excited to launch workshops tailored to the needs of the women at Samaritan House 48th—sessions that blend practical tools with spiritual encouragement if they desire it. He envisions gatherings where women can not only learn how to present their best selves to an employer but also rediscover their God-given dignity and purpose.
“I am grateful for this opportunity to have organic conversations about life, their past, their future, knowing that all of this is much bigger than me,”
In a space where healing, hope and new beginnings intersect, Deacon Rich has found himself not just serving—but witnessing grace in motion.