Deacon Michael Vitarelli has been blessed to spend his entire life rooted in the community of Waterford Township, New Jersey, where faith, family, and service have always been central to his life.  As a lifelong resident of Waterford Township, Deacon Michael has deep ties to the local community and to Christ the Redeemer Parish in Atco, which he proudly calls his home parish.

Deacon Michael was ordained to the Permanent Diaconate on October 24, 2020, after several years of prayerful discernment, theological study, and formation within the Diocese of Camden.  His calling to the diaconate grew from a strong desire to serve the Church and accompany others in their faith journeys through ministry, service, and the proclamation of the Gospel.  Since his ordination, he has been honored to assist at Mass, proclaim the Word of God, preach, baptize, witness marriages, and serve the parish community in many pastoral and charitable ways.  Faith and family are at the heart of Deacon Michael’s life.  He and his wife Meredith share a strong partnership rooted in their Catholic faith and commitment to serving others.  Together they have built a beautiful family and have raised their children with the same values of faith, love, and service that have guided their own lives.  Deacon Michael and Meredith are the proud parents of three daughters: Angelina, Anna, and Alexandra.  Their family continues to grow with the addition of Alexandra’s husband, Michael, who has become a cherished member of the family.  Deacon Michael often speaks about how grateful he is for the love and support of his family, especially throughout his journey toward ordination and ministry.  In addition to his ministry at Christ the Redeemer Parish, Deacon Michael is also involved in the local business community.  He and his wife Meredith are the owners of Jessco Construction Inc., a family-run construction company based in Waterford Township.  Through their business, they have had the opportunity to serve many families and businesses throughout the area while maintaining the values of integrity, hard work, and community that define their family.

For Deacon Michael, ministry is not limited to the church building but extends into everyday life—meeting people where they are, listening to their stories, and sharing the love of Christ through acts of service and compassion.  Being able to serve at Christ the Redeemer Parish, the very parish that has been such an important part of his own faith life, is a special blessing.  Deacon Michael looks forward to continuing to grow in his ministry and to walking alongside the parishioners of Christ the Redeemer in faith, prayer, and service.  He asks for your prayers as he continues to serve God and the Church, and he is grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a vibrant and faith-filled parish community.