A vocation is different from choosing career or getting a job. The word “vocation” means “calling.” It is not simply deciding to do one thing or another. In a general sense, all the baptized are called to witness to God’s kingdom and thus share in that common vocation. However the word “vocation” has a particular meaning, that of answering a call to a specific state in life through which we believe we are called to help build the Body of Christ. Through the priesthood, religious life, marriage or single life, God directs us to our place in God’s kingdom. This weekend, in a special way, the Church celebrates vocations to the priest hood and religious life.
Below is a reflection from Deacon Mike Feldtz.
The stirring in one’s heart to the vocation of priesthood may come at different volume levels. The calling can be as subtle as the simple smiles from people you are helping when you volunteer, or as loud as a concert of your favorite Christian artist. The calling can run the full range of everything in between. The important “
next step” is to
take it all to prayer. After sitting with the thoughts in prayer, you will find it helpful to
share your blessings with a trusted friend, mentor, teacher, religious, or priest. Realize that
you are never alone, and should not just hold this blessing in for yourself. God wants all of us to be happy in our vocational calling and God calls all of us to serve him through serving others here on earth. The how is the challenge. Personally, I know priests who serve others and help bring people closer to God as authors, professors, medical doctors, lawyers for the poor, military chaplains, and yes – parish priests. I know priest who still enjoy hobbies like sailing, painting, softball, writing, woodwork, and (yes) even brewing beer. These men are still their own person; however, they are doing very radical things when judged by today’s societal norms – they are bringing others closer to God.
Listen to your calling,
take it to prayer,
share the blessing with a trusted friend, and you’ll work towards a deeper discernment of you priestly calling, as your journey is just beginning.