What is a vocation?

A vocation is a call from God to do something specifically for God and for His kingdom. The primary vocation of every person is to be holy! It is the divine calling to love and serve God, to obey His commandments, and to cooperate with Christ in the work of redemption by loving and serving others. But we are all called to live that vocation in the particular way through which we are to be holy.

How do I know what God is calling me to do?

You must pray every single day, asking God to reveal His plan for you. Do not ask yourself, "What do I want to do with my life?" This is the wrong question! Rather, you should be thinking and asking: "Jesus, what do You want me to do?" And listen for the answer! The primary locus of revelation is the heart. Listen with your heart! The discernment process in the priesthood must also include the Church. The local bishop is the one who ultimately decides who is and who is not called. He is assisted in this by the vocation office and the seminary.

Can I be happy in my life if I do not follow God’s plan for me?

If you do not follow the vocation for which God made you, you can attain a certain degree of happiness in this world, and still attain salvation (go to heaven). But you can never be as happy as you might have been, had you followed your proper vocation. This is why it is so important that you discern correctly. The discernment of your vocation is likely to be the most important decision you will make in your entire life! Of course, there are trials and tribulations in every vocation. To become a priest does not take away all suffering. But there is great joy in laying down one's life for Jesus!

Am I holy enough to be a priest?

If God only called perfect people to priesthood and religious life, no one could legitimately respond. The Holy Father calls us all to "grow in holiness" and Jesus himself said we are to grow to be "perfect as our heavenly Father is perfect". We aim high and do our very best. That is all that God asks of us. If God is calling you and this call gives you inner joy ... your holiness, though incomplete at this point in life, is on the right path!

What is a religious vow?

A vow is a solemn promise made freely as an individual gives his or her Life to God. Many religious communities make vows of poverty, celibacy, and obedience. Some communities have other vows as well. Diocesan priests do not make vows but do promise to lead a celibate life and to respect and obey their diocesan bishop. They are also expected to live a simple lifestyle.

What about celibacy?

Celibacy, in the religious context, is the means by which a man consecrates himself totally to God for the service of humanity. By celibacy a Christian sets aside the responsibilities and intimate relationships of family life in order to take on the responsibilities of serving the wider family of man. By a personal relationship with God in prayer, by the friendships and associations with married and single men and women, he grows in his love of humanity and becomes capable of serving God's people more effectively. To be authentic, it must be inspired by a love for Jesus.

Are most priests happy?

Most priests are extremely happy in their vocations! The life of a priest is a very rewarding life, both in this world and in the next. The media often gives an incorrect impression of priests that they are largely unhappy, frustrated, and angry. This is simply not true.