Brother Joseph Bach, O.S.F.

How are you involved in vocation ministry and when did you start?

I've been the full-time vocation director for my community, the Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn, since the fall of 2019. But I've been part of the vocation team for about five years. Today I work with vocation animators in each of our schools.

Besides that, I serve with Sister Mary O'Donovan, O. Carm. as a coordinator for the Hudson Valley NRVC Member Area.

Has belonging to NRVC been helpful for you?

Yes, it's been incredibly helpful to me! I first attended the "Orientation for New Vocation Directors" workshop in 2015, followed by the NRVC Summer Institute in 2016, and most recently I participated in Summer Institute 2020. Each workshop has provided me with excellent networking opportunities, resources, and skill development to be a better vocation director. Being a member of NRVC has provided me with the support and continuing education that make vocation ministry less daunting.

How have you continued your ministry during the pandemic?

It has been challenging, but being able to adapt to a virtual vocation ministry has allowed me to be in contact with those discerning religious life. We've expanded our social media presence to have more interaction with people. Our member area continues to meet virtually. In fact, the new virtual reality has actually increased participation in vocation events.

Tell us a fun fact about yourself.

I love to drive buses and I am a certified examiner of bus drivers for the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles. Driving a bus gave me an opportunity to get the know our students outside the classroom and to especially support them when I drove for sports teams.

What do you find most rewarding in your ministry?

The interactions I have with a diverse group of young men discerning our life and with other vocation directors. I have learned so much and continue to be enriched by this exciting ministry!