Helpful Steps in Discerning Your Vocation

1. Prayer

Prayer is a conversation with God, not just saying prayers, but speaking to the Lord from your heart.  Ask him to reveal His plan for you, "Jesus, I want to do what You want. Here I am, Lord. I come to do Your will." Trust that God has a plan for you.

2. Sacraments

The soul is the window through which we can see God and hear his voice. If the window is dirty because of sin, it must be cleaned through Confession, so we can be in union with God. When you receive Communion, ask Jesus to show you your vocation.

3. Good Information

It is impossible to discover your vocation without good information. What does it mean to have a holy Christian marriage? What do priests do? What is it like to be a religious sister or brother? Search for good books, online information, then take what you have learned back to prayer. 

4. Grow your understanding of Faith

The Center for Ministry offers many evening, day and weekend programs.  They can help you learn more about your faith.

5. Get Advice

Don't try to discern your vocation alone, without the help of the Church. Talk to a priest, deacon, sister or lay minister who you trust in your parish or near your home.

6. The Blessed Mother

Mary said yes and can help you say yes too. She is the ultimate example of openness to the will of God. Are you open to God's will for you? Pray three Hail Marys every day, specifically to know your vocation and have the courage to follow it. When the time comes, you must act! Move in the direction your heart tells you, confident that God will never send you where his grace cannot sustain you!