May 22, 2005
 Want to discover God’s will for your life or help support others in
their search? Prayer is essential to nurture awareness of one’s vocation.
That we as a church face difficulties in vocation work today is no excuse for
wringing our hands and doing nothing. The Spirit is present among us, urging
us to meet the challenge with new energy and creativity. Here are some ways
all Catholics can help:
- Invite! Invite! Invite! The primary reason people don’t consider religious
life and priesthood is that no one ever asked them to do so. It is critical
that people raise the question “Have you ever considered being a brother,
priest, or sister?” Even if the person responds with shock or laughter,
the seed has been planted. Time and again I hear people say, “I probably
would have considered priesthood or religious life if someone had asked
me to think about it.”
- Reflect on your own life. As you read this, don’t assume it is intended
only for someone else. Ask yourself whether you have the skills needed to serve
as an effective sister, priest, or brother. Don’t be afraid to think
about this possibility and to open yourself to God’s deepest call within
you. It’s the call of God’s love! Search out an understanding person
with whom you can discuss vocational possibilities. It just might be a good
idea—for you and for the people of God.
- Get to know some priests and religious. Because there are fewer priests
and religious, it becomes necessary at times to seek them out. When people
invite
priests, brothers, and sisters into their homes and into their lives, they
get to know them as real people. They discover that such a life can be
happy, committed, and fulfilling.
- Be supportive. Those considering religious life and priesthood need
encouragement. They also need the witness of adults who say with their words
and their lives
that commitment is possible. And at times candidates for the priesthood
and religious life may need financial assistance because of education debts.
- Focus on the positive. There is much negative press about religious
life and priesthood today. These issues demand attention. Yet we also need—in
the news as well as day-to-day conversation—a focus on the many positive
aspects of priesthood and religious life. Priests and religious, like everyone
else, appreciate thanks and encouragement.
- Pray for vocations. Prayer is a vital element in parishes and families—not
just prayer for more vocations but also prayer that honestly seeks the
response to which the Spirit is inviting us today.
For more information, contact the National Religious Vocation Office (1603 S.
Michigan Avenue, Suite 400, Chicago, IL 60616; www.nrvc.net), your diocesan vocation
office, or the vocation directors of religious communities. These offices can
usually provide a variety of vocation resources, including printed and video
materials, prayer cards, and speakers at little or no cost.
Sister Cathy, a School Sister of Notre Dame, is a former executive director of
the National Religious Vocation Conference.
|
