Member spotlight

How long have you been involved in vocation ministry?

I've been involved since August 2011, so just about two-and-a-half years.
 

Are you part of a team?

Yes, our team consists of a full-time layman who serves as our "national vocation director" (Mr. Len Uhal), four priests, a brother, and a full-time lay secretary. Each of the priests as well as the brother covers a specific region or "territory" of the U.S., Canada, and the Caribbean.
 

How has belonging to NRVC affected the way you do this ministry?

Being a member of NRVC has been immensely helpful to me by way of the skills and resources it's provided me to learn the ins and outs of vocation ministry and to engage in the ministry with both competence and confidence. At the same time, I've found that networking and collaborating with my NRVC colleagues has opened doors to new and concrete opportunities for promoting vocations in parishes, schools, and on college campuses--while providing a sense of support, friendship, and encouragement!
 

What has been your best outreach effort so far?

My best outreach effort to date has been channeling the power of social media (Facebook, Twitter, etc.) to create a space where I can meet, connect with, and engage in conversation young people who feel that God may be calling them to consider a religious vocation. By far, Facebook has proven much more reliable than the traditional means of phone and e-mail in terms of garnering a response from young people whose names come across my desk from VISION, Guide to Religious Ministries, and other sources.
 

Any advice for those who are just beginning in vocation ministry?

To those who are new to the ministry, always keep in mind that you are not alone, and that you have many colleagues in NRVC who are ready and willing to welcome you, support you, and work with you as together we build a culture of vocations in our church and in our society. Don't be afraid to try new things and even make some mistakes along the way. And most important, never take for granted the privilege it is to accompany another on his/her walk of faith!
 

Reach Father Adam at adamsvd@yahoo.com, or 800-553-3321 or find him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/adamsvd.