The Ven. Denise Schiavone

Deacon Denise took her ordination vows on June 13, 2020—at the height of pandemic shut-downs—in her home parish of St. John’s Ellicott City. The pews may have been nearly empty of people, but the sanctuary was filled with the Holy Spirit. 

Deacon Denise strives to inspire and empower others in ministry and mission, particularly in new or “stretch” areas. An appointed member of Howard County’s Interfaith Advisory Council, she’s a strong advocate for interfaith and ecumenical partnering and collaboration to serve community needs. In addition to serving as deacon at St. Peter’s, she serves as Archdeacon of the Episcopal Diocese of Maryland. 

Her experience includes supporting refugees in resettlement, serving people living with mental health challenges, and addressing housing and food insecurity. She also spent 12 years as a volunteer court-appointed special advocate, a.k.a. CASA, for Howard County children in foster care. 

In her secular vocation, Deacon Denise works as a Communications Strategist, Writer and Editor for a large not-for-profit company that serves the public interest. She also served 20 years in the U.S. Navy, retiring from active duty in December of 2006 at the rank of Lieutenant Commander. She holds a master’s degree in writing from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree in government and politics from University of Maryland College Park. 

In her off time, Deacon Denise enjoys yoga, hiking, traveling, and spending time with friends. She lives in Ellicott City with her husband Matthew. They have three children: Connor, Jordan, and Joe—along with three cats and one dog.