Father Malachi Van Tassel defies expectations, wearing a Friar’s habit, weaving Franciscan spirituality and priestly anointing into his role as president of St. Francis University in Loretto, Pennsylvania.
Early Life and a Journey to Catholicism
Born in Poughkeepsie, New York, his family converted to Catholicism when his stepmother married his father.
A Career in Accounting
After earning a degree in accounting, he pursued a career in public accounting before beginning to feel a deeper call to the priesthood.
Discovering the Franciscans
”I thought to myself, ‘These friars seem happy, I could see myself with them,’” he says, joining the order in 1997.
From Professor to President
Before becoming president of St. Francis University in 2014, Father Malachi served as an accounting professor for 12 years.
A Mission of Prophetic Witness
”Our mission is to form them into courageous disciples who can articulate and live out their faith.”
Advice for Discernment
”Ask the Lord what He wants you to do. Listen to the people around you, they may be the voice of God guiding you.”
