Vocations

Vocation comes from the Latin: "vocare." This directly translates to a call. Our vocation is God's call for us in how we live, work, and care for our community. Each person has a unique, distinct, and definitive vocation from God. There are many forms of vocation within the Church.

However, the one vocation that each person is called to is holiness. Each person's call from God signifies the steps He has outlined to bring that person to holiness. While all vocations are different, they lead to the ultimate call for each person to be holy. 

Marriage
Marriage is a profound call to love your spouse wholeheartedly and to be open to the gift of children. The purpose of marriage is for a man and woman to help each other get to heaven and to teach their children to do the same. Like any vocation, marriage is not to be assumed, but rather, it is a path that must be discerned with care and respect for the individual's unique journey.

Consecrated Life
Both men and women can join religious orders such as the Franciscans, Dominicans, Benedictines, etc. The life and work of religious orders vary greatly—some are primarily devoted to prayer; others work actively in schools, hospitals, orphanages, etc. Common to all religious orders are the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience.

Priesthood
Priests bring Jesus to people and people to Jesus through preaching and the sacraments. They are active as they counsel people, teach classes, prepare homilies, administer parishes, and much more. Their most important devotion and role as priests is offering the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. Many surveys show that priests are among the happiest people in the world! Deacons, too, share in the sacrament of Holy Orders.

Single Life
Some people serve God as single people, without marrying or making special vows. While not a “vocation” in a strict theological sense, single people “contribute greatly to the good of the human family” (CCC 2231). Each single person brings their unique gifts and talents to the Church, serving God and neighbor in exemplary fashion. There are many single people who serve the Church with incredible generosity, and their contributions are deeply valued and appreciated.

Need help with your discernment? Visit the Archdiocesan Vocation Page, or contact one of our beloved priests.