Vocations

This Sunday, April 22 is the 22nd World Day of Prayer
for Vocations. This day we celebrate and pray for the men and
women who have already, or who will in the future, choose to
share God’s love through their lives as sisters, brothers,
deacons and priests.
Did you know that the number one reason young people
say that they have not considered a vocation to the priesthood
or religious life is that no one has ever invited them to
consider it? Maybe you know a young person who has what it
takes to serve the church as a sister, brother, deacon or priest?
Look at the checklist below and think about whom you know
that might have the gifts to serve the church. Then let them
know! You could be the very one to make the difference!
A candidate for ordained or vowed life should be:
1. In good health, and attentive to maintaining a healthy
lifestyle
2. Intellectually curious and willing to learn
3. Able to serve others selflessly
4. Skilled in social interaction
5. A person of faith and integrity.
Bishop Joseph Imesch has shared much with his people in
Joliet, Illinois concerning vocations. Part of his message bears
repeating:
―Families are the primary source of vocations. It is in the
family where the practice of faith is impressed upon young
people and where attitudes toward life are formed. I ask
parents, then, to recognize the need to teach your children to
make choices grounded in Gospel values.
The practice of your own faith provides a much-needed
alternative to negative influences of modern culture. Let the
way you live your married life model the value of Christian
commitment. Know that your children are a gift from God,
and help them discover their uniqueness. Pray with your
children and be willing to share them with the Church!‖