Support Priestly Vocations

Here are 10 simple ways for families to promote vocations in their homes.

1. IDENTIFY THE GIFTS OF FAMILY MEMBERS

Through baptism each of us has received special gifts and talents. Reflect as a family on the gifts and talents of each person and how they can be used in service to the family and to the parish. There is a place for each of your unique gifts in the Church.

2. PRAY

Of all the ways we can work toward the increase of vocations to the priesthood, prayer is undoubtedly the most essential. Make a commitment to pray for this intention every day as a family, perhaps at mealtime. Also consider praying for a particular priest in your parish.

3. OFFER FRIENDSHIP TO PRIESTS

Whether it’s sharing a meal, or taking a walk, or simply having a conversation, make an effort to share friendship with priests and religious. Friendships will foster awareness, communication and respect for the lifestyle and needs of each person. Feelings of happiness and satisfaction will be the sure result!

4. PARTICIPATE IN PARISH ACTIVITIES

A healthy parish community includes the participation of all its members. The involvement of your family in the activities offered in your parish will help create the life-giving environment necessary for nurturing priestly vocations.

5. TELL STORIES

Recall time in your lives when a priest showed kindness to you and helped make a positive difference. Have the children share an experience too. Talk about what these men mean to you and the services they offer to God’s people, the Church.

6. SAY THANK YOU

We all know that is feels good to be thanked. Say thanks to a priest. It is encouraging for them to feel that their generosity is being appreciated and the time they spend in service to the parish community is being recognized. Offering thanks also sheds a positive light on the priesthood.

7. ATTEND MASS

The celebration of the Eucharist is a fundamental aspect of our faith. Gathering around the Lord’s table will serve to strengthen the bond in your own family and the bond of the parish family. It is a strong parish family that produces priestly vocations. Bring the children – they add life to the celebration!

8. SEND CARDS

Find out the anniversary dates of ordination celebrated by priests, and send them a card. By this simple act, they will be assured of our prayers, support and friendship. It will also serve to reinforce the family atmosphere of the parish community.

9. PERFORM ACTS OF CHARITY

In the Gospels, Jesus directs us to love our neighbor, and He calls us to serve one another. There are various ways that we can behave charitably and serve the Lord gladly. Look into ways that your family can generously meet the needs of your neighbors. A charitable heart is a hallmark of a priestly vocation.

10. REMEMBER THAT YOUR HOME IS THE “DOMESTIC CHURCH”

Parents are the first preachers of the faith to their children, and the home is where early formation occurs. Create a climate within your home that will foster and encourage all members of your family to live out the vocation that God has planned for them. Pray, read spiritual books, talk about your faith and vocations to the priesthood. Let your home truly be a dwelling place for the Lord!

When a young man is discerning a vocational call to the priesthood, often it raises many questions and concerns for the parents and family. In an effort to allay any fears or concerns and provide experienced insights, the Vocation Office sent a questionnaire to parents of Detroit seminarians and to parents of newly ordained priests. The questions asked and some of the responses have been posted to address many of these questions and concerns that any parent may face when a son considers entering the seminary. Please feel free to contact the Office of Priestly Vocations if you have any questions.

WHAT DO YOU THINK OTHER PARENTS WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF THEIR SON IS CONSIDERING THE PRIESTHOOD?

• If one’s son is considering the priesthood it’s wonderful to note that there is no prototype in terms of age, personality, occupation (former) or circumstances; rather that “openness to grace”, so rejoice and encourage him to seek discernment in an atmosphere where he will be formed, amongst others seeking the same answer.
• Parents should become informed as to how and where a possible candidate could begin the process of actual investigation of a vocation.
• I think parents would like to know how to approach the situation, where to go for information and the order/seminary their son is considering entering. I believe parents would benefit from talking to other parents of men considering the priesthood or to parents of men who are already ordained.
• It is a tremendous job! He will not desert you but visit often. His parish becomes his extended family.
• Pray for them and take one day at a time. Realize the importance of spiritual direction and put “no” pressure on them. Let God draw them in through prayer.
• They must be tremendously supportive and always be there for him. Always encouraging (him) to follow God’s call.

WHAT WAS YOUR REACTION TO YOUR SON TELLING YOU HE WANTED TO STUDY FOR THE PRIESTHOOD?

• Surprised, but happy due to the fact that when he was 2 yrs. old, he told the priest who was blessing our home and myself that he wants to be a priest when he grows up.
• [I was] very happy. [I was] kind of surprised. He hadn’t mentioned anything.
• My reaction to my son’s being open to study for the priesthood was a mixture of surprise and joy. (It was) a vocation he said he wasn’t going to do, so I really didn’t expect it despite praying as a family for an increase in priestly vocations.
• I was not surprised, as I had always thought he had a “call” to the priesthood. There were always “hints” that law would not be a lifelong vocation or occupation for him.
• My “whys” in regard to his personal relationships terminating, were answered.
• One of great joy, yet also one of concern for him that he will continue to have the courage to ward off the doubters.

ANY OTHER COMMENTS, CONCERNS, OR ADVICE YOU MAY WANT TO SHARE WITH OTHER PARENTS?

• The formation and road to the priesthood is one the whole family travels. It is a fantastic opportunity to grow in your knowledge and your faith.
• Our children our not our clones. Their purpose in life is not to turn our dreams and goals into realities. Whether he chooses to be a fireman, a fisherman, a poet or a priest, the choice must finally rest with him. We need to show support, enthusiasm and faith in his decision.
• He will not desert you, but visit you often. His parish becomes his extended family. He will enjoy vacations, social life, and activities of his choice. Your love for him will erase any doubts you had.
• I believe that they should encourage your son to try — if it’s not for him, he’ll know and can leave if he chooses.
• If your son decides to be a priest, support him.
• Give your son support and love as parents. Pray for his success and pray harder every day so the Holy Spirit will always be with him.
• His entire family should show they are behind his decision to answer his call to the priesthood.
• Just give them all the love, support, and prayer you have to give and be there for them.
• The harvest is ripe, the laborers are few. We need good and holy priests. We need good and holy people. Sure it would be wonderful to have grandchildren, another daughter-in-law, to carry on the family name, but in reality, it is vanity; all else is vanity.
• …..have faith and pray.