“If you can’t explain it to a 6-year-old you don’t understand it yourself,” is a quote often attributed to the physicist Albert Einstein. While the quote may be apocryphal, it’s likely a well-grounded rule of thumb.
In the spirit of this wisdom, the diocesan communications office produced a video featuring Father Noah C. Morey, vocations director, discussing the vocation of the priesthood with area Catholics.
Guests include elementary and middle school students from Blessed Sacrament School in Alexandria; a high schooler from St. John Paul the Great in Potomac Shores; Meredith Hinkle, mother of Father Jim Hinkle and Serra Club member; Father Christopher P. Christensen, pastor of St. Rita Church in Alexandria; and Bishop Emeritus Paul S. Loverde.
The video was released for National Vocation Awareness Week, Nov. 2-8, a celebration of vocations to the priesthood, diaconate and consecrated life. It’s also an opportunity for the faithful to renew their commitment to prayer and support for those considering a call to religious life.
Similar videos can be found all across the internet. This video showcases authentic conversations between a Catholic priest and devout Catholics — some of whom are discerning their vocation and others who have already embraced their calling.
Father Morey explains topics relating to vestment colors, his own discernment journey, his favorite leisurely activities, as well as how he renews his commitment to “conform (his) life to the mystery of the Lord’s cross” — a promise he made during his Mass of Ordination.
Father Morey, former chaplain of Bishop Ireton High School in Alexandria, sees signs of hope as he encourages young people to discern their vocation.
“What I’ve noticed (with) a lot with young people is they’re dissatisfied with the things of this world and looking for deeper meaning, looking for something more,” he said.
Bishop Loverde, who celebrates 60 years as a priest in December, shared some reflections as his anniversary approaches.
“Although you can have your own schedule for the day when you wake up, there are a number of things that can wreck that schedule, and you have to be prepared for that with a smile,” Bishop Loverde said. “Because when people come, they come. And if they’re in need, they’re in need. At the bottom of all this, is being there acting in the person of Christ. We were ordained not to do what we do. We were ordained to let Christ work in us.”
Nevins is the diocesan media production manager.
Watch the video
