Discerning the Call

I think I may have a religious vocation- what do I do now? Vocational discernment is an area with many questions for young people. A vocation is like a garden- it needs to be cultivated if it is to develop into all it is meant to be. Here are some things you can do to deepen your relationship with Christ and further discern whether or not you have a call to serve Christ in the Church.

• Participate regularly in the sacraments. Attend daily Mass when you are able, which will strengthen both your relationship with God, Whom you worship, and the community with which your worship. Receive the sacrament of Reconciliation on a regular basis.
• Stay close to the Eucharist. Have you ever been to Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament? Many parishes have this on First Fridays, and a few have perpetual adoration chapels. Rejoice in the gift of Himself that Christ has given us in this sacrament. While there you can pray silently, read scripture, or do another act of prayer and adoration.
• Research! There are many internet sites that have information on priestly and religious vocations. Do an internet search for “vocations to the Catholic priesthood” or something similar and browse through the returns.
• Find a favorite devotion. Attend daily There are many devotions that people have found to help them grow in the spiritual life, such as the Rosary, Divine Mercy, and Sacred Heart. Those discerning the priesthood may wish to pray to St. John Vianney, patron of parish priests.
• Take the Next Step. If you feel a continuing call to the priesthood or religious life, contact a vocation director. He or she can help you in your continuing discernment.