Our ministry is based on the belief that all people are entitled to receive spiritual guidance and support, regardless of their identified faith or background. Our entire team is committed to serving those needs. As a result, a high percentage of the services we provide are for our established families or corporate groups, and from "word of mouth" referrals. We are a proud inductee into The Knot Hall of Fame and consecutive recipient of the Wedding Wire "Couples' Choice" Awards (2012-2026) and The Knot "Best of Weddings."
The Reverend Father Michael J. Calderin is the Senior Pastor and Administrator at Saint Jude Ministries and Saint Jude Orthodox Catholic Church. Reverend Michael oversees the ministry, including the Pastoral and Chaplaincy training program. Reverend Michael is an active Police, Fire and Hospital Chaplain, and is a member of the Federation of Christian Ministries, the International Conference of Police Chaplains, and the Federation of Fire Chaplains. As a Chaplain, Reverend Michael serves those of all faiths.
In December 2023, Reverend Michael was incardinated into Good Shepherd Companions, an Ecumenical Catholic Ordinariate. Reverend Michael was elected to serve as treasurer of Good Shepherd Companions during the general meeting in 2025. Reverend Michael also serves on several committees.
Reverend Michael was incardinated into the Western Orthodox Catholic Church in America, Diocese of Saint Michael the Archangel and Servants of the Good Shepherd (SGS) by Bishop Del Provino on August 15, 2026. Reverend Michael now serves as the Presiding Bishop's Chaplain and Archivist. Reverend Michael often concelebrates at Our Lady of Hope Orthodox Catholic Church in Hollywood, Florida, and also celebrates weekly mass in the chapel at a local hospital, and as a backup priest at All Saints Catholic Mission and Soup Kitchen in Oakland Park, Florida. Reverend Michael previously served as the Presiding Bishop's Chaplain and Canon in the Catholic Apostolic Church International, he is currently leading the Church's transition since the death of Bishop Joaquin Perez.
Rev Michael earned a Master’s degree from the University of Phoenix, and a Bachelor’s degree from Empire State University of the State University of New York. Reverend Michael holds certifications in Mental Health, Addictions, Telehealth, and Victim Services. Reverend Michael completed his ministerial and chaplaincy training at New Directions Institute while providing spiritual guidance to those suffering from mental illness. Reverend Michael received Ecclesiastical training from the Western Orthodox Catholic Church in America, and further training and priestly ordination from the Catholic Apostolic Church International.
Reverend Michael served at the Broward County Sheriff's Office from November 2000 through December 2012. He held several positions throughout his 12 years of service, rising to Commander in 2008. He received several letters of commendation for his distinguished service. Reverend Michael was appointed in 2007 as the Florida Chaplain for the National Police Defense Foundation where he continues to serve.
Reverend Michael completed his counseling internship at New York Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia-Cornell Medical Center, where he subsequently served in the Department of Psychiatry for over 10 years prior to his relocation to Florida. Overall, Reverend Michael has over 38 years in public service, including 11 years assisting the New York City Police Department; he currently serves as Chaplain for the NYPD retirees 10-13 club and the Fraternal Order of Police, Statewide Lodge NY3100 for law enforcement retirees residing in Florida.
The Reverend Michael Somberg, MS, BS is the Associate Pastor at Saint Jude, and is often referred to as "the other Rev. Michael" LOL. He is a 40 plus year veteran of law enforcement service, having retired in December 2012, although he has stayed active in a consulting capacity to many police chiefs and sheriffs. Rev Michael served at the Miami Beach Police Department, and later joined the Broward County Sheriff's Office. Through the years, Michael has not only been a public servant but has served on numerous organizations as a volunteer and serving on the boards of the Boys and Girls Clubs and the YMCA. He has volunteered his time to the Miracle League as well as other organizations devoted to special needs children.
Rev. Michael’s dynamic personality as well as his sense of humor and appreciation of the solemnity of the event will provide you with a wonderful memory of that most special day. Michael is a husband and proud father, and he understands the balance between the responsibilities of life and work.
Rev Michael holds Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees from Florida State University-GO NOLES!! He is one of the select few law enforcement professionals who has ever been chosen to be a Senior Executive Fellow at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University, where his area of interest focused on public policy issues. Michael completed his pastoral training and residency at Saint Jude. For those seeking a civil ceremony, Rev Michael is also a Notary Public, State of Florida.
Maria Lopez joined the team at Saint Jude to primarily focus on personal development coaching and premarital preparation for individuals and couples that we serve. Maria offers guidance and support to assist during different life events and also during challenging times. Maria is bilingual (English/Spanish), and she completed an internship and some specialized training here at Saint Jude.
Maria obtained a Master of Arts degree in Human Services Counseling from Liberty University. Maria is a Registered Premarital Course Provider and Certified SYMBIS Facilitator. Maria is also a proven business leader and Life Coach.
