Holy Orders
In the hidden recesses of the human heart, the grace of a vocation takes the form of a dialogue. It is a dialogue between Christ and an individual, in which a personal invitation is given. Christ calls the person by name and says: “Come, follow me.” This call, this mysterious inner voice of Christ, is heard most clearly in silence and prayer. Its acceptance is an act of faith.
– St. John Paul II
The Sacrament of Holy Orders is the sacrament through which baptized men are called to serve in the name and in the person of Christ, the Head, in the midst of the community. It is a sacrament of service through ordination to the priesthood and is celebrated only after considerable preparation. Similarly, discerning a call to the Religious life is also a response to God’s call to serve his family in a special way.
For further information and help go to sbdiocese vocations.
Vocations Articles
The Dignity and Vocation of Priests by Fr. Ed Broom, OMV (Catholic Exchange)
Encouragement for Vocation Discernment by Fr. Xavier Nacke, OSB (Conception Abbey, Missouri)
What's My Vocation with Fr. Mike Schmitz (Ascension Presents)
3 Spiritual Exercises to help Discern your Vocation with Fr. Ivan Van Heusen (Diocese of Raleigh, NC)
“People who say that we priests are lonely are either lying or have got it all wrong. We are far less lonely than anyone else, for we can count on the constant company of the Lord, with whom we should be conversing without interruption. We are in love with Love, with the Author of Love!” — St. Josemaria Escriva
Prayer for Vocation (provided by USCCB)
Gracious God,
You have called me to life
and gifted me in many ways.
Through Baptism You have sent me
to continue the mission of Jesus
by sharing my love with others.
Strengthen me to respond to
Your call each day.
Help me to become all You desire of me.
Inspire me to make a difference in
others' lives.
Lead me to choose the way of life
You have planned for me.
Open the hearts of all to listen
to Your call.
Fill all with Your Holy Spirit that
we may have listening hearts and
the courage to respond to You.
Enkindle in my heart
and the hearts of others the desire
to make the world a better place
by serving as
Lay Minister, Sister, Priest,
Brother or Deacon.
Amen.