Friar Emanuel Vasconcelos, O.F.M.Conv.

Being connected to others doing similar ministry is a big reason that Friar Emanuel Vasconcelos, O.F.M.Conv. is part of the NRVC. He is vocation director for the Franciscan Friars Conventual, Our Lady of the Angels Province. He is also a Mid-Atlantic Member Area Coordinator, along with Sister Jean Rhoades, D.C.

How long have you been in vocation ministry,  and what did you do prior to this?

This is my third year in vocation ministry, and I work alongside another friar in my province. Before this, I was an associate pastor at a parish in Columbus, Georgia.

Has being a member of the NRVC been helpful to you?

It's great to connect with other vocation directors and learn what's worked and what hasn't—as well as know that I'm not alone!

What is a ministry approach that you like?

I appreciate our interaction with young people at our ministries, especially college campus ministries and post-grad volunteer programs.

What do you do for fun?

I enjoy bike riding, listening to all types of music, and singing. In fact, I once got to sing tenor for Christmas carols at Vice President Joe Biden's Christmas party back in 2013!