National Vocation Week 2011

National Vocation Awareness Week January 9-15, 2011

The Catholic Church in the United States will celebrate National Vocation Awareness Week, January 9-15.

God calls us all to live our faith and seek out our vocation to become a deacon, priest, religious sister, married or single person. Perhaps God is calling you to the priesthood or consecrated life. Will you have the courage to follow your heart? We are all called to love and serve Him and one another. As we continue to walk in the light of Christ and to serve our Lord with our whole heart, mind and soul, may we be filled with the love of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and seek to forgive all who have hurt us. National Vocation Awareness Week is a time for reflection. During the week of January 9th-15th, we encourage all Catholics to:

•Take time to pray for vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life.
•Reflect on our own vocation and strengthen our personal relationship with Christ.
•Educate our young people about the importance of silent prayer and taking the time to truly
•Listen to God’s voice in our hearts.

>>>Allow me to add to the list above. When you pray for vocations pray specifically for a young man or young woman by name. Many times, as it was in my vocation to the diaconate, it was others praying for me and encouraging me that helped me move forward.

Also, tell someone who you sincerely believe has a vocational call that you indeed believe that they should at least be open to the possibility.

Pray specifically for vocations from your own home parish.

If you live near a seminary inquire about any support you can offer as a volunteer, financially or perhaps your family could adopt a seminarian especially if they are studying far from home.

If you are part of the CCD program or RCIA, RCIC programs enthusiastically talk about vocations.

If you are a member of an organization, like Knights of Columbus or Ladies Sodality, support pro vocations programs.

Offer Masses, rosaries and Eucharistic Adoration, Benediction for vocations.

Encourage Catholic families to be generous with the possibility that their own child may have a vocation. If that means you and me, never ever discourage a vocation because you want a grandchild or have your son or daughter follow in your footsteps. Encourage them to be open to God's call; he will work it all out!

Remember Vocations especially this week in your prayers, thoughts, words and actions!