Reverend Patrick J. Griffin, C.M. ’13HON, reflects on a lifelong commitment to teaching and service as he continues his role as Executive Director of the Vincentian Center for Church and Society (VCCS) at St. John’s University. Fr. Griffin, who joined the Congregation of the Mission in 1972, has held various roles throughout his career, including General Treasurer of the Congregation in Rome and Director General for the Daughters of Charity in Paris.
Born to Irish immigrants in Brooklyn, NY, Fr. Griffin began considering priesthood during grammar school after a visit from a Vincentian priest at St. Saviour Church. His education journey took him from St. Joseph’s Preparatory Seminary to Niagara University, where he majored in physics before delving into theology studies at Mary Immaculate Seminary.
Fr. Griffin’s path was not limited to traditional ministry; instead, he pursued further studies in Biblical Studies at Catholic University of America and gained proficiency in multiple languages necessary for scripture programs there.
His career included teaching positions at Niagara University and administrative roles across several institutions before being called to international assignments by his superiors within the Vincentian community.
Reflecting on his diverse experiences, Fr. Griffin remarked on how they prepared him for his current responsibilities at VCCS: “The work I do now is rather specialized,” he said, emphasizing his role’s importance in connecting academia with church and community efforts.
Fr. Griffin acknowledges that had life taken a different turn, he might have been a teacher or family man but remains content with his choices: “I’m happy to continue carrying out my vocation.”
