Parish

Why in the parish setting? 

The primary mission of any parish vocation ministry is to help all parishioners discern God’s will in their lives, no matter the calling. Focus on this goal, and in God’s time, vocations will flourish, leading to more seminarians, religious men and women in formation, and holier marriages. A vocation ministry must pray and implement uplifting and encouraging activities that create a fertile environment so God can plant the seed and the Holy Spirit can water that seed in the hearts of individuals.

Start small and simple, then grow in size and depth. Each ministry must prayerfully and logically assess its ability to implement each activity. Pay prayerful and careful consideration to the section on phases, and use first-hand advice to choose the most appropriate activities for the different stages in the ministry’s life. Measure success over years, not months, so leaders and participants remain encouraged when faced with obstacles or with what feels like slow progress. Focus on the basics and allow God to bring the harvest.