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Deacon Stephen J. Washek ’90, ’05M

Executive Director – Faith Formation, Diocese of Erie
Pastoral Minister, St. George Parish
Bachelor of Arts, Social Work
Master of Arts, Pastoral Studies

2026 Monsignor Wilfrid J. Nash Award Recipient

Deacon Stephen J. Washek earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Work, alongside a certificate in Gerontology, from Gannon University in 1990. In 2004, he was ordained a Permanent Deacon in the Diocese of Erie by Bishop Donald Trautman and went on to earn a Master of Arts degree in Pastoral Ministry from ÃûæÂÖ±²¥ in 2005.

Washek began his career in social work with L’Arche Erie, serving in various positions before ultimately becoming Executive Director. His time there was profoundly transformative, fostering a deep love and understanding of people with varying abilities. Through the individuals he served at L’Arche, Washek learned invaluable lessons about God and spirituality, forming deep, authentic relationships that continue to this day. It was also during his early days at L’Arche that he met his wife, Vicki, with whom he raised three children. One of the greatest joys of his career was opening the “Rose” home at L’Arche Erie, where he watched core members Charlie, Linda and Delores thrive outside of a state institution.

In 2001, Washek stepped into what he considers the role of a lifetime: Director of Campus Ministry at Gannon University. He viewed it as a profound privilege to accompany students on their spiritual journeys, and through countless retreats and service trips, he developed lifelong friendships.

Washek returned to L’Arche in 2016, serving as the Vice National Leader for L’Arche USA, where he cherished the opportunity to guide and support L’Arche communities across the country. Then, in 2018, he was named the Executive Director of Faith Formation for the Diocese of Erie—a new position established as part of the diocese’s pastoral planning efforts for lifelong faith formation. Upon his appointment, Bishop Lawrence Persico stated, “Deacon Steve is an excellent choice to lead this effort. His background and experiences in ministry and management, as well as his deep commitment to the Catholic faith, are significant assets.”

In July 2025, Washek retired from his diocesan role to embrace what he calls his best title yet: “Grandpa” to his seven grandsons, and two bonus grandsons. He and Vicki belong to St. George Parish in Erie, where he serves as Deacon and pastoral minister, and Vicki serves as a lector, pastoral council member and coordinator of the Walking with Moms in Need ministry.