Chaplain (CPT) Michael A. Rivera

Michael Angelo Rivera Jr. is an ordained non-denominational minister within the International Ministerial Fellowship in Excelsior, MN. He serves as the co-founder of Focus and Vision Ministries, a Minnesota Army National Guard Chaplain, a Family Life Pastor and a Chaplain for Walker Methodist Healthcare Center. He has an illustrious enlisted military background with two oversea deployments and a civilian background in sales, marketing, advising and consulting. Michael holds an undergraduate degree in Leadership, Management and Technology from Roger Williams University in Bristol, RI and completed his MDiv at Luther Seminary in St. Paul, MN. As a chaplain, pastor and advisor he is invested in equipping people to thrive. He is a leader of leaders and passionate about seeing people live their best lives. He considers himself a family man who has been married to his wife, Katie for 16 years. They have two children, Michael III and Esther and a Giant Schnauzer, Lincoln and live in Farmington, MN.

His life’s verse is 1 Peter 3:15, “Instead, regard Christ the Lord as holy in your hearts. Whenever anyone asks you to speak of your hope, be ready to defend it.” (CEB)

His life’s quote is, “Chaplaincy is a lifestyle. All people need to be heard and supported, regardless of where they are in life’s journey.”