Voices of Mary: Praying for her sons and daughters

God is always the source of the calling, yet God allows us to be a part of that work, often calling his sons and daughters through our lives, our actions, our words, and even our prayers. Indeed, God has ordained that our prayers are efficacious, that they have real meaning. Our lives–and our prayers–play a part in the Providence of God. When we pray for vocations, we are following Christ’s commandment to pray for laborers for the vineyard of the Lord. It is an act of love, not only for those answering the call, but for all those to whom they will bring the Gospel message.

There are many ways of praying for vocations. Our diocesan-wide prayer campaign is known as the “Voices of Mary,” and it entails saying a simple prayer for all vocations each day. In addition, a weekly hour of prayer in front of the Blessed Sacrament and/or a weekly Rosary for all vocations is suggested. Finally, throughout our day, we are invited to offer up our sufferings for an increase in vocations.

In families, schools, organizations, and parishes, shared prayers for vocations are an important part of showing our respect for all vocations. Whether including vocations intercessions in the daily Mass, or praying the Voices of Mary bookmark (right) as a family before bed, we share our value for vocations and discernment while also trusting that God may use our prayers as part of his divine plan.