NATIONAL VOCATION AWARENESS WEEK

How can I know God’s plan for my life?

FATHER SAM BELLAFIORE, diocesan Director of Vocations & University Ministry, is shown with (from front l.) Seminarians Samuel Zuze, Francis Umoh, Franklin Anyanechi and Luke Winters last month at St. Edward the Confessor in Clifton Park. Nine diocesan seminarians gathered together for a Mass and photos which were taken by Vianney Vocations. (Photo courtesy of Vianney Vocations)

Follow these recommendations and God will help you to understand what He is calling you to do with your life!

1. Prayer

Prayer is conversation with God — not just saying prayers but listening and speaking to the Lord from your heart. Every day, read the Bible and talk with Jesus as if He were your best friend. Spend time with Jesus in the Eucharist. Ask Him to reveal His plan for you: “Jesus, I want to want what You want. Here I am Lord; I come to do Your will.” Trust completely that God has a plan for you.

2. Sacraments

The sacraments are the way God has given us access to Himself. When you stray, go to confession to be reconciled with God. Receive the Eucharist so that, united to Jesus, you can better hear his call for you.

3. The Blessed Mother

Mary is the ultimate example of openness to the will of God. “May it be done to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38). Are you open to God’s will for you? Pray three Hail Marys every day asking Our Lady to help you answer God’s call.

4. Get informed

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? Take what you have learned back to prayer.

5. Go on retreat

Miracles happen on retreats! One of the surest ways to discover God’s plan for you is to enter into silence and prayer over an extended period. 

6. Get advice

Don’t try to discern your vocation alone without the help of the Church. Talk to a priest or trusted spiritual advisor.

When the time comes, have the courage to move in the direction your heart tells you, confident that God will provide all the graces you need.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF A PRIESTLY VOCATION?

How do I know God is calling me?

1. God has placed in your heart a desire to be a priest.

2. You have a deep love for Christ and His Church.

3. Other people have mentioned that you would be a good priest.

4. You desire to live a life of virtue and prayer.

5. You want to help others grow closer to Christ.

If you’ve thought about the possibility of the priesthood, but don’t yet have all these signs and qualities, don’t worry! All people must strive for holiness. And future priests go through a long and intensive formation period, precisely to help them grow in virtue and be effective in their ministry.

If you’re interested in the priesthood, talk to a priest you trust about the signs. He can help you further discern your vocation, and he will know if it’s time to talk to the vocation director. And remember — true happiness and peace depend on following God’s perfect will for your life.

If God wants you to be a priest, trust in his grace to lead you.

WHAT IS DISCERNMENT?

A vocation is a profound commitment to follow God’s call, and it requires thoughtful effort and care to understand that calling. This careful process of discovering God’s will is known as vocational discernment. Proper discernment involves several key elements:

•  Deep self-awareness: understanding your personality, strengths, weaknesses, inclinations, spirituality, mental and physical health.

•  A solid understanding and love for our Catholic faith.

•  Familiarity with the different vocations, what they entail, and the life they shape for those who embrace them.

•  Discernment is not something one can do alone. The best way to discern is with the guidance of the Church, ideally with a priest or a trusted spiritual director to help illuminate where God may be calling you.

•  If you’re seeking guidance — whether you have simple questions or are looking for more in-depth support — start by speaking with a trusted priest and he will know when to contact the vocation director.

For more information, head to albanypriest.org.