Deacon Michael J. Leyden is a graduate of Xavier High School and Fordham University in N.Y.C.  For over 40 years, Deacon Mike has been very much involved in Parish work in many and diverse areas.  He was ordained to the Diaconate in June of 1979, the first class of Deacons in the Diocese of Rockville Centre.  He and his wife Susan began the Parish Baptismal Preparation Program in 1979, participating in this Ministry for almost 30 years. Deacon Mikes serves as Chaplain for the parish chapters of Catholic Daughters of Americas, Knights of Columbus and is also the moderator for CYO.  In addition to their 3 grown children, the Leydens have five grandsons. Deacon Mike loves to read and is a huge sports enthusiast: he loves the Mets, the Giants and college basketball.  He also likes collecting me morabilia of every kind.