Father Hathaway’s Column Written by Guest Columnist: Father Peter J. Clem, YA, Parochial Vicar — November 5, 2023

This week is National Vocations Awareness Week (November 5-11), a time to pray for those still discerning their vocation to be open to whatever God may be calling them to do and for those who have already found their vocation to be strengthened “to live in a manner worthy of the call you have received” (Eph 4:1).

A vocation is a calling and a gift. God calls us and desires us to give, in a special way, to Him and others. Many are called to the vocation of marriage. Some are called to the priesthood, the religious and consecrated life, or the committed single life. At the core of each of these is the common vocation infused in us through baptism when we are incorporated into the Church and configured to Christ, sharing in His priesthood, His prophetic and royal missions (See Catechism of the Catholic Church # 1268).

But through these unique vocations, we are able to receive unique graces. Prayer is essential for every vocation, that we ask God to guide us and make clear to us how He is asking us to receive His grace and to then give to others. Also important is prayer in action through community and service. Love of God is always linked to love of neighbor.

Looking back on my first year as a priest, I see the many ways in which God has been calling me to receive His love and then give this same love to others. I am constantly coming to know and love God more through the sacraments: offering Mass, hearing confessions, baptizing, anointing the sick. It is a joy to listen to someone in need, share with them the love of Christ and pray for them. I have come to know the Lord more through my brother priests. I have experienced the care and support of this parish community at family meals and in the classroom. I have been given so many opportunities to serve young people, the elderly and everyone in between.

We can think in our own lives how God wants us to grow in our vocation through prayer, community and service. How can you grow in prayer with God? What communities are you part of and how can you grow more in your love for each other? Who is in need? Who is God asking you to serve? We are called to give of ourselves by means of our vocation through prayer, community and service. Whether you already have your vocation or are still discerning, be generous and courageous in following your calling. Ask God how He wants you to give of yourself. And when you follow His call, do it with joy!

The vocation to love is a wonderful thing; it is the only force that can truly transform the cosmos, the world.

— Pope Benedict XVI