Joseph Campisi
Deacon, Our Lady of Grace (OLG)
Howard Beach
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Joseph Campisi, the Deacon of OLG for nearly 25 years, said, “My whole life is based on giving back. I’ve been very fortunate and happy with what I am and what I have.”
Campisi explained that, having volunteered with the homeless and in soup kitchens, he travels to Kentucky with a crew of volunteers — including his wife Gloria — to help the poor there. “I go on the pulpit and beg people for money,” he said. “They are so generous.” With the moneys raised, the volunteers fix homes and aid the poor. He tells of one woman wearing tatters with plastic bags for windows, and another with a freezer full of possum meat. This year, the volunteers will be traveling to Kentucky in September for nine days.
“The joy the volunteers get is priceless,” he said.
PERSONAL: Campisi has been a resident of Howard Beach for 49 years and “involved 49 years.” He and Gloria have been married for 54 years. “He is full of God’s love” Gloria said of her husband. “My joy as his wife and supporter is watching him work with the poor.”
The couple has three sons — two doctors and an engineer — and seven grandchildren. They tell of how their daughter-in-law cooks for the homeless each week. “There is joy in doing God’s service,” said Campisi.
BIGGEST CHALLENGE: Campisi cites his biggest challenge as transportation (to Kentucky).
PROUDEST MOMENT: Although he did not cite a specific moment, Campisi said he is most proud of his sons. “I love my sons,” he said.
INSPIRATION: “My wife,” said Campisi. “She is the most spiritual woman I’ve ever met in my life.”
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