Helping Young People to Discover Their Calling
How can Catholics encourage young people to consider if God has called them to a priestly or religious vocation?
How can Catholics encourage young people to consider if God has called them to a priestly or religious vocation?
At the Diocese of St. Petersburg Vocations Workshop on March 5, 2024, over 100 participants were eager to find out.
"So many of our young people yearn to be seen. It’s as simple as saying, ‘Hey, I noticed the way you pray. Have you considered whether the Lord is calling you to be a religious sister, brother, or priest?’” shared Father Chuck Dornquast, Director of Vocations for the Diocese of St. Petersburg.
He was speaking to representatives from 38 parishes and schools who attended this annual event.
The Workshop offered insights into current seminarians, their studies, available resources like the new parish toolkit, that explains how everyone has a role in promoting vocations.
Sister Sherly Vazhappilly, Associate Director for Vocations and Vicar for Religious for the Diocese of St. Petersburg remarked, "I can see many vocations out there, and I thank you for attending this workshop to help promote vocations within your community."
The workshop is organized by the Office of Vocations and its Diocesan Vocations Enrichment Team, consisting of six members from various parishes around the diocese.
Bishop Gregory Parkes expressed his gratitude, stating, "I sincerely thank you for your presence here today. I remain grateful for all those earnestly working to promote vocations within our Diocese. May we continue to collaborate courageously in encouraging vocations."
The Diocese of St. Petersburg presently has 20 seminarians, with 12 at St. Joseph Seminary in Louisiana, 6 at St. Vincent De Paul Regional Seminary in Boynton Beach, and 2 recently accepted.
If you have considered priesthood or religious life, you can find further information at www.dospvocations.org
