Hands of Mary: Working for her sons & daughters

The priesthood, the religious life, and the diaconate are special manifestations of the Christian mission. Those who are called– and who answer the call–can bring Christ’s love to the world not only through what they do, but also in the very essence of who they are. A priest becomes Christ’s healing love when, in a moment of great need, he gives the sacraments to an injured body or a wounded soul.  A deacon who  faithfully brings Holy Communion to a homebound neighbor becomes the face of Jesus.  A religious sister who teaches children for decades is herself the unfailing devotion and love of Christ.

Yet vocations to the priesthood, religious life, diaconate, and even Christian marriage are counter-cultural.  Those who consider living a life of service to Christ, His Church, and His flock, are often discouraged, if not directly by people in their lives, then indirectly by the culture around them.  Therefore, it is our task to build a culture of vocations, an atmosphere of prayer and support for everyone who is discerning, or striving to follow, the will of God. In helping them answer God’s call, we are helping them bring Christ to the world.

As you explore our programs, consider how you personally can help in one or more areas. Your parish may already have a vocations committee or coordinator in place, to which you can contribute your unique talents and gifts. If not, you may consider starting one and inviting others to join you. In either case, know that you are working to build Jesus’ Church in answer to the great need of our world. As Jesus said, “the harvest is abundant but the laborers are few” (Mt 9:37).