Meet Deacon Asterio Velasco

Deacon Asterio Velasco was born in Valladolid, Spain, and as a youth left for Puerto Rico where, besides studying, he worked in Salesian ministry among the most humble in Cantera, Santurce. After two years in Santo Domingo, he completed his theological studies in Salamanca, Spain. Years later, in New Jersey, he would continue with religious studies at Seton Hall University, this time in Church history. He has spent his whole life among youth and in the field of teaching. He worked professionally in public high school and pastorally in Ss. Joseph & Michael in Union City, NJ. It has been his home since he arrived in the United States. Here he has served as deacon since his ordination seventeen years ago A year ago he was named Hispanic Apostolate Coordinator for the Archdiocese of Newark. Here he is trying to contribute with "my grain of sand". The archdiocese is one of the largest in the country (in terms of people, not territory). They have 75 parishes that minister in Spanish. There is a lot of great work going on in the parishes. He views his role as one of improving communication and helping with formation. The Lord has blessed him with a wonderful family. His wife and children have always been very active in ministry, in particular in youth and music ministry. They have always been a team.

"I am convinced that the human and religious formation of the Hispanics in our parish communities is urgently important. We need more and better prepared ministers at the service of our communities." "I am Salesian at heart, and I am enthusiastically living this historic moment in our Church. I consider myself fortunate to be able to participate actively and be able to "put my grain of sand" in this process towards the V Encuentro. I am convinced that the Lord will transform our limitations into great works."

2015 © ENAVE. All Rights Reserved. Photo by Deacon Asterio Velasco.