Have you met Sam?

We asked Sam some questions so that we can get to know him better.

What is your name? 
Sam Jizba
 
When did you start working at St. Stephen the Martyr?
June 2023
 
What is your position? 
Confirmation Coordinator
 
Where did you work before St. Stephen the Martyr?
I spent many years in retail/customer service working for Marriott, Nebraska Furniture Mart, and First National Bank before working as Director of Youth Ministry at St. Elizabeth Ann and St. James parishes here in Omaha. Most recently, I work at Gloria Deo in addition to my position as Confirmation Coordinator.
 
Where did you grow up? Where did you go to school?
I grew up here in Omaha and attended public schools ending at Omaha Northwest High School before heading off to college. I spent time at UNO, Metro, and Creighton as well as a year in Seminary Formation for the Archdiocese of Omaha at St. John Vianney Seminary in St. Paul, MN.
 
Tell us about your family (spouse, children, grandchildren, pets, etc.): 
My family consists of my Mother, two brothers, and my dog Rocco.
 
What’s your favorite thing to do on the weekends?
I enjoy spending my weekends watching sports, NFL, College Football, and Premier League Soccer.
 
What do you like to do for fun? What do you like to do to unwind/relax?
The best way for me to unwind or relax is either spending time reading with Rocco curled up by me, or spending time with friends.
 
What’s your least favorite chore around the house?
My least favorite chore to do is making my bed.
 
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Professional soccer player
 
Do you have any hidden talents or hobbies?
I am out of practice, but I can play the Saxophone
 
What is your favorite food?
Fried Chicken
 
What is your favorite sweet treat?
Tiramisu
 
What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received?
Sometimes the best compliments I have received are simply being told that I am appreciated.
 
What three items would you take with you to a deserted island?
My dog Rocco, solar-powered coffee maker, and the Lord of the Rings Trilogy
 
What’s your idea of a perfect day?
Relaxing with friends around a fire.
 
What do you enjoy most about working at St. Stephen the Martyr? 
So far the entire experience has been wonderful, I very much look forward to meeting and getting to know everyone at St. Stephen the Martyr.
 
Which word in our mission statement has the most impact on you? Why?
Encounter, everything starts with meeting Christ
 
What advice do you have for others to grow their Catholic faith and relationship with Jesus Christ?
Surrender everything to Christ. The joys, sorrows, triumphs, and losses. Sharing your life with Him makes the good things in life even better, and the crosses become easier to bare