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“You ask me for encouragement and guidance, and most willingly I offer some words of advice to all of you in the name of Jesus Christ. In the first place I say this: you must never think that you are alone! Follow Christ! You who are single or who are preparing for marriage. Follow Christ! You who are young or old. Follow Christ! You who are sick or aging; you who feel the need of a friend. Follow Christ!”
Pope John Paul II
What is Discernment?
GOD HAS GIVEN A SPECIAL VOCATION, A UNIQUE MISSION, TO EACH PERSON.
It lies within the soul, waiting to be discovered. The realization of one’s vocation can occur at different stages in one’s life. For some, it is an easy and almost effortless discovery. For others, it can be a long and arduous search.
The word “discernment” comes from the Latin “discernere” which means “to separate.” When one is “discerning”, it means she is taking time apart in order to pray, think, reflect, and discover the unique plan God has for his or her life.
The vocation to the holy orders or consecrated life is a special call from God. To begin the discernment process, it is important to follow a program of spiritual growth.
Some points to include are daily personal prayer, increased attendance at Mass, reception of the Eucharist, more frequent confessions, involvement in some parish or other religious-sponsored activity, practicing the virtues, and speaking with a trusted Confessor or spiritual mentor who will guide you in the process.
Do you feel a sense of joy, peace, and purpose when you imagine living one of these callings? Although fears may come and go at times, a greater pattern of peace will prevail with the desire to be a priest, religious, or consecrated person if it is your calling. If it is the Lord calling you to a vocation to consecrated life, I share the words repeated by John Paul II from Christ in the Scriptures, “Do not be afraid!”
If you have questions about discernment or would just like to speak to someone about practical tips and receive help regarding your own journey in discernment, give us a call or email us at the Vocation office.
The Bible
The Catechism of the Catholic Church
“To Save a Thousand Souls” – Fr. Brett Brannen
“Discernment 180” – Fr. Greg Gerhart
“Discerning the Will of God” – Fr. Timothy M. Gallagher, O.M.V.
“A Priest is Not His Own” – Venerable Fulton J. Sheen
“The Shepherd Who Didn’t Run” – María Ruiz Scaperlanda
“Why Celibacy?” – Fr. Carter Griffin
“Pastores Dabo Vobis” – St. Pope John Paul II
“Program for Priestly Formation” (6th Edition)