What can we do as a Parent?

To Promote Vocations to the Priesthood & Religious Life?

Explain the Idea of "Vocation."

Define the word "vocation" to your children. Describe to them how a vocation is different from a profession or career, rather it is a calling to live as a single, married, ordained or consecrated person. Our vocation is who we are. Explain how through baptism we have each received certain gifts that we will use in living out the vocation that God has called us to.

Share Your Vocation Story

Let your children know that you have a vocation to the married life. Share with them the story of how you first met your spouse and how you felt when they were born. Your children will treasure these stories and lead them to consider what their own vocation might be.

Create a Peaceful Atmosphere in Your Home

The "busy-ness" of our lives can become overwhelming. The constant hunger for activity can prevent us from taking the time we need, to sit in silence and pray. Create an atmosphere in your home where the abiding presence of the Lord can be felt.

Show Support

Often times when a young person does express an interest in the priesthood or religious life, they do not receive support and encouragement from their parents. Explore how you would feel if your child were to express a desire for a church vocation. It could lead to a healthy and more productive dialogue with your child about their future hopes and dreams.

Read the Bible

Read the Bible or other books of a spiritual nature to your children, or if they are old enough, encourage them to read on their own. Talk about the significance of what you have read. Keep the Bible in an accessible place in your home. Nothing nourishes a priestly or religious vocation like the sacred scriptures!

Serve in a Parish Ministry

Consider becoming a lector, eucharistic minister, usher, religious education teacher or some other parish minister. Not only will you be helping your parish, but also you will be setting an example for your children. It will help make your family part of the parish family and inspire them to service.

Suggest a Priestly or Religious Vocation for Your Child

It takes a great deal of generosity on the part of a parent to suggest a vocation to the priesthood or religious life for their child. Some young people will not consider this as an option for their life unless they have been asked. Be generous. Do the asking and don't be afraid to encourage them.

Pray

Provide opportunities for prayer in your home everyday. Make it a normal part of decision-making. Pray in particular for an increase in vocations to the priesthood and religious life. Ask God to bless the priests and religious known to your children by name. Pray for those who are in formation for a priestly or religious vocation.

Speak Positively About Priests and Religious

Our words and attitudes make an enormous impression on our children. By speaking positively about priests and religious, you will foster a set of values that will promote respect and gratitude to those who serve God's church faithfully.

Love

The best and holiest thing any of us can do for our children is to love them. By loving them and expressing this love, they will have courage and faith they need to allow the Holy Spirit to work within them. Guide them well and help them to see where God is calling them. Let your example of love be their guide.