About You:
Living Faith: Describe your vocation in life.
David Dziena: I’ve been working in Church ministry in various capacities since high school. My vocation is rooted in serving others through the Gospel—whether that’s through catechesis, publishing, pastoral support or leadership. It has always been about walking with people on their journey of faith and helping them encounter Christ in meaningful ways.
I’ve spent my career in Catholic publishing and ministry, serving parishes, schools, dioceses, and families through a variety of roles, including editing, product development, and catechetical leadership. I’m passionate about connecting people to their faith through accessible and engaging resources that support both lifelong formation and daily living.
LF: Do you reach out to readers online via a website or social media?
DD: Yes, primarily through our GROW blog at Pflaum. It’s a place where we share reflections, ideas for catechists, family faith-building content and seasonal inspiration.
LF: Share a little about your ministry or daily work…. (A day in the life looks like…)
DD: A typical day includes a lot of emails and ongoing communication with our team and partners. I meet—both in person and virtually—with staff, editors, the sales team, diocesan leaders and sometimes bishops or representatives from the USCCB. I spend time reviewing book projects, editing, guiding product development and offering support where needed. No two days are exactly the same!
LF: How long have you been publishing, or when did you start?
DD: I began in Catholic publishing in 1997, though I’ve always loved the power of words to teach, inspire, and communicate faith. Thankfully, for about two decades now, I’ve dared to share my stories and reflections as a gift back to our Lord.
LF: What is the most difficult part of your writing process?
DD: I wear many hats, so carving out the quiet time to write thoughtfully can be a challenge. My team handles most of the writing, but when I do write, I need time to isolate, clear my head and create space for reflection—which isn’t always easy with so many competing responsibilities.
LF: How many books have you written, and which is your favorite? If you haven’t written a book, name a favorite that you’ve enjoyed.
DD: I’ve written or contributed to many projects over the years. Two of my favorites are Faith Fusion (OSV), which offers comprehensive formation for Confirmation, and Lessons About God That Kids Can See (Pflaum), which helps children connect faith with daily life in creative, visual ways.
LF: Where do you live today, and is that different from where you grew up?
DD: I currently live in Massachusetts, but I grew up in New York. The biggest difference? Living among Red Sox fans when I’m a lifelong Yankees fan!
LF: Three words your best friend would use to describe you.
DD: Faithful, dedicated, dependable
LF: One additional thing you would want a Living Faith reader to know about you that we haven’t covered above. (A hobby, something silly or fun, an accomplishment, or an interesting fact?)
DD: I love to play golf! I’m working on consistently breaking 80—and I’m getting close.
About Faith:
LF: When did you first know that God loved you?
DD: In my first grade Religious Education class. It was the first time I truly felt that God’s love was personal and real.
LF: Describe a prayer practice that is meaningful to you.
DD: Reading the daily Mass readings and Living Faith is a daily ritual. I also read selections from the Divine Office—especially the non-Scripture readings, which offer a powerful connection to the early Church and the saints.
LF: What’s something you’ve learned from the Bible or from the Mass or the Sacraments that has always stayed with you?
DD: That the Sacraments are visible signs of invisible grace. This truth continues to shape how I see God working in everyday life.
LF: What excites you about being a Catholic?
DD: The Eucharist. There is absolutely nothing that compares to receiving Jesus in the Eucharist—God’s own life given to us in such a humble, intimate way.
About the Bible:
LF: Do you have a favorite Bible verse?
DD: The Parable of the Forgiving Father (often called the Prodigal Son) in Luke 15. It speaks so deeply to God’s endless mercy and his joy in welcoming us back, no matter how far we stray.
LF: Do you have a favorite Gospel? If so, which one? Elaborate if you wish.
DD: Matthew 16:24–26 is especially meaningful to me: “Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me” (v. 24). It’s a challenge that applies to every stage of life, and one I return to often for reflection and strength.
LF: If you could spend a day with a person (besides Jesus) mentioned in the Bible, whom would you choose?
DD: Mary. I would love to simply sit with her, listen to her wisdom and learn from her faith, strength and quiet courage.
About Living Faith:
LF: What is one thing you love about Living Faith?
DD: One thing I love about Living Faith is how it offers short, powerful reflections that connect the daily Scriptures to real life. It helps readers pause, pray and remember God’s presence in the middle of busy days. It’s a simple but meaningful way to stay rooted in faith every day.
*The interview was edited for clarity and conformity to style. No meaning was altered in the process.
