November 3-10

As Catholics, we firmly believe that God has a plan for our lives! He calls some to marriage, some to the priesthood, and others to religious life. Some remain as generous single people. Fully living our own vocations—and teaching young people how to discern God’s call—is a serious duty, but also a joyful one. Today begins National Vocation Awareness Week. During this week, please pray about how God is calling you to live your vocation more deeply. Encourage the young people in your life—children, grandchildren, students, and friends—to be open if God calls them to priesthood or consecrated life.

Teach Your Children to Use GPS

After Mass today, have a conversation with your children, asking, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” After a few moments of discussion, ask, “Who do you think God wants you to be when you grow up?” Emphasize to your children that God has a specific plan in mind for them, and that following God’s plan is the surest way to happiness. Every life decision—which college to attend, whom to date, which job to pursue, whether to enter seminary, whom to marry—should be undertaken only after praying for God’s guidance. In other words, encourage kids to navigate life using GPS—God’s Positioning System.

How Parents Can Nurture Vocations

Set an example. Model discipleship and a loving marriage to your children.

Seek role models. Befriend priests, sisters, and brothers and invite them to your home.

Look to scripture. Read and discuss the Bible stories of Mary’s response to God (Luke 1:26-39), and Jesus calling the Apostles (Mt 4:18-22).

Pray for the future. Pray aloud that your children will follow Jesus and remain open to holy marriage, priesthood, and religious life.

If your child does express interest in the priesthood or religious life, be supportive. The best thing you can say is, “Whatever God wants for you, I want for you, too. Just keep praying to discover His will for your life.”