Each year, National Vocation Awareness Week serves as a
reminder that God continues to call people to explore the plans he has for
them. Our 50 seminarians, along with the 75 men and women in formation for
religious life, bear witness to this truth.
This year’s theme comes from the prophet Jeremiah (29:11): “For I
know the plans I have for you.” As we celebrate National
Vocation Awareness Week (Nov. 1-7), it is inspiring to contemplate
that God, our Creator, knows each of us personally and has a plan for our
lives.
The most important calling we have is to our vocation: marriage,
the priesthood, consecrated life, diaconate, or some other path. To my
dear friends in Christ discerning their vocation, I encourage you to focus on
using your talents at the service of the Lord to become more like him and bring
him to others. If you live more closely to Our Lord, in prayer and service, his
will for your life will become clearer.
For those who have committed to a particular vocation, I pray
that each morning you are enthused and energized in the great opportunity you
have to demonstrate to the world God’s goodness and love. I pray that your
vocation enriches you, draws you closer to Christ, and evangelizes a world in
need of the fulfillment found only in him.
Brothers and sisters, I also ask that you pray for our diocese,
that God will continue sending priestly vocations to serve in this
local vineyard. We are blessed with 50 seminarians; however, the needs of our
diocese are ever growing. Your prayers are invaluable in helping young men hear
the call of Our Lord and respond with courage and confidence.
During this National Vocation Awareness Week, I hope that,
with the Lord’s grace, you cultivate a spirit of gratitude toward God for his
plans for your life, no matter your vocation. Through our commitment to prayer,
holiness, and virtue, may we each find the path of holiness to which God calls
us and live that life in abundant grace and in a manner worthy of the call you
have received.