Every life is a vocation
Vocation is not a special category for priests and nuns. Every life is a vocation. God calls each person by name and gives each life a purpose. For most, that calling is found in marriage and family life. For others, it is the priesthood, the diaconate, religious life, or the single life lived for Christ. All are paths of holiness.
Listening for God's call
Discernment is the slow work of asking, listening, and saying yes. Most people discern through prayer, conversation with a priest or spiritual director, and faithful daily life in their parish. There is no rush. There is no formula. There is a Father who is patient with you.
Even ten minutes of silence before the Blessed Sacrament. Speak to the Lord, and let him speak to you.
Your parish priest is the first person to talk to. He will help you take the next step.
The Vocations Group meets every two months for adoration, Mass and a meal. Bring your questions.
Where God might be calling you
Bishop Mark joins Pope Leo in inviting all who are considering their calling to take steps to discover their vocation, whether in Christian Marriage, Consecrated Life, the Catholic Priesthood, the Diaconate, or the lay vocation lived in the midst of the world.
Marriage
The vocation lived by most. A sacrament, a school of love, the foundation of family life.
Priesthood
The vocation on which all other vocations in the Church depend. 12 men are currently in formation in our diocese.
Permanent Diaconate
Married or single men ordained for the ministry of the Word, the altar, and service to the poor.
Religious life
Sisters and brothers who give their whole lives to Christ in poverty, chastity and obedience.
Single life for Christ
A life of service, prayer and self-gift, lived in the world without marriage.
We will walk with you
If you are thinking about a vocation, the simplest first step is to email Fr Tony McGrath, Director of Vocations, or speak to your parish priest.
