What can we do as a Single Person?

To Promote Vocations to the Priesthood & Religious Life?

Become Involved in Youth Ministry

Our young people need positive role models. You might consider volunteering some of your time in youth ministry. It will benefit the young people of the parish to see the example of your vocation as a generous single person and you will benefit from the energy and enthusiasm that youth bring to the church!

Attend Holy Hours

The parish family at Our Lady of Lourdes in Gales Ferry has daily Perpetual Adoration. Make a commitment to attend a Holy Hour for Vocations to the Priesthood and Religious Life at least once a month in your own parish or in a neighboring church.

Teach a Religious Education Class

Religious education programs are always eager for faithful leaders to teach religious education classes. Helping children explore their spirituality is a rewarding experience. You can help them on the path that will one day lead them to their vocation.

Attend Mass

Celebration of the Eucharist is a fundamental aspect of our faith. It is around the table of the Lord that the parish family gathers and where you are an important part of that family. Our prayer is not complete without you. It is a strong worshipping community that gives rise to priestly and religious vocations.

Say Thank You

We all know that it feels good to be thanked for a job well done. Say thanks to priests and religious or send them a card expressing your gratitude. It is encouraging for them to know that the generous life of service is appreciated. It also sheds a positive light on priestly and religious vocations.

Extend an Invitation

Many people claim that they were never invited to explore a vocation to the priesthood or religious life. Extend this invitation to young people you know who you think might have a church vocation. Tell them what gifts you recognize in them that are needed in the life of a priest or religious. Your invitation could make a difference in their lives.

Participate in Parish Activities

A healthy parish community includes the participation of all its members. Your involvement in the activities, both spiritual and social, offered in your parish will help create the life-giving environment necessary for the nurturing of religious and priestly vocations.

Pray

Of all the ways we can work toward the increase of vocations to the priesthood and religious life, prayer is undoubtedly the most essential. Make a commitment to pray for this intention everyday. Also, consider praying for a particular priest or religious in your parish.

Participate in Vocation Awareness Week

Promote the World Day of Prayer for Vocations, which takes place on the Fourth Sunday of Easter, and other events sponsored by the Diocesan Vocation Office. Your presence and support will enhance the effectiveness of these events

Explore the Possibility of a Church Vocation for Yourself

As a single person, you may still be considering a vocation to marriage and parenthood you may also feel invited to explore the possibility of a vocation to the priesthood or religious life. If you would like information or just some conversation, contact a vocation director. Give it some thought.