Our Staff | Saint Joseph Parish

Meet Our Pastor

Rev. Fr. Joby Agustin

Welcome to our parish community! We are pleased to introduce our esteemed Parish Priest, Father Joby Augustin. Born on January 2, 1977, in the vibrant state of Kerala, India, Father Joby is the beloved son of Augustine and Rosy Moonjely and is the eldest among five siblings—three brothers and one sister.

His spiritual journey commenced at a young age when he joined the seminary in 1992, subsequently affiliating with the Congregation of the Sons of the Immaculate Conception (CFIC) after completing his 10th grade.

Father Joby is deeply committed to his vocation and possesses a strong educational background, including a Diploma in General Nursing and Midwifery, as well as degrees in Philosophy (B.Ph) and Theology (B.Th). He was ordained as a priest on April 25, 2007, marking the beginning of his dedicated pastoral career.

His early ministry included roles such as Project Manager at the Special School Teacher's Training Institute in Perinthalmanna, Kerala, and serving as Superior of St. Mary's Ashram, as well as Manager of St. Mary's English Medium School and College in Kasargode, Kerala. From 2010 to 2013, he enriched the spiritual life of the Santa Maria Goretti Church in Edmonton and served as a hospital chaplain.

Continuing his pastoral mission in Edmonton, Father Joby served as Pastor of the Twin Parishes of St. Agnes and St. Anthony from 2013 to 2019, followed by his role as Pastor of St. Francis Xavier Church in Camrose, Alberta, until 2021. He briefly served the Margaree churches in Cape Breton before assuming the responsibilities of Pastor at St. Peter's Church in Port Hood, St. Margaret of Scotland in Broad Cove, and Stella Mary's in Inverness, NS, from 2021 to 2022.

Currently, Father Joby leads our community at St. Joseph Church in Port Hawkesbury and Holy Trinity Church in Whycocomagh. We are truly blessed to have his guidance and look forward to his continued spiritual leadership and compassionate presence among us.

Meet Our Deacon

Mr. Berkley Guthro

I was ordained as a deacon for the Diocese of Antigonish on September 16th, 2011, at Saint Ninian's Cathedral. Since then, I have dedicated my service to the parishioners and the broader community of Saint Joseph's Parish.

Collaborating closely with our pastor and parish team, I assist families through various sacraments such as baptisms, weddings, and funerals, as well as RCIA, Faith Formation, and visiting the sick. My diaconal presence is a vital part of my daily interactions with those I meet. My ministry also emphasizes outreach to those in need, particularly through Saint Joseph's Closet.

My wife, Jessie, and I feel truly blessed to be part of a faith-filled parish that actively lives out their baptismal call to support their brothers and sisters every day.

Pastoral Staff

Nancy Day

Faith Formation Coordinator

Hi, my name is Nancy Day and I have lived in Port Hawkesbury for 45 years and have been married to Paul Day for 38 years. Together, we have been blessed with three beautiful children: Kyle, Madison, and Aaron, and their families — son-in-law Sébastien, daughter-in-law Alanna, and our cherished grandchildren Roman and Finn.

For nearly 30 years, I have served as Faith Formation Director at St. Joseph Parish. I feel deeply blessed to have worked in this role, accompanying and sharing faith with our church families across generations. Being part of helping others grow in their relationship with Jesus has been a true gift in my life, and in turn, has helped me grow in my own faith.

"Be kind and merciful. Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier."— Mother Teresa

Carolena MacKinnon

Administrative Staff

My name is Carolena MacKinnon and I am the Administrative Assistant in the Parish Office. I assist the Pastor and I am part of the parish team. I also help the Parish Pastoral Council and the various pastoral ministries and committees. I am also responsible to administer the parish books and I assist with the financial responsibilities of the parish. I am pleased to welcome you to the Parish Office. I have been part of the Parish team since April of 2016.

I have lived my whole life in Port Hastings, except for the time I left to attend Acadia University for a Bachelor of Business Administration, so St. Joseph's is my home parish. I have 2 children, now grown adults. In my spare time I like to read, walk, and spend time in nature.