Having served as the Associate Director for Vocations for nearly two years, Sr. Vazhappilly has witnessed a growing desire among women in our diocese to discern a consecrated vocation.

“Each one of us is called to holiness by the sacrament of Baptism. My hope is that young women in our diocese will have a foundation for their discernment of consecrated life as they answer the call given to them at their baptism. We pray for an abundance of young women who are courageous in saying yes to the Lord.”

What was the process like to bring this retreat to our diocese, and who helped make it happen?

We are so blessed to have generous parishioners in our diocese who support vocations to the priesthood and religious life through the Catholic Ministry Appeal. After reaching out to Emily Savage from FIAT Ministries, we moved quickly to find a date and location that would work for everyone. By the grace of God, the Franciscan Retreat Center was available to accommodate these women for the weekend. I am so grateful to those who have supported this retreat—both financially and spiritually—for our young women. I would say that everything came together through the assistance of the Holy Spirit.

What is the cost to attend?

The cost to attend is $45.

Is there a particular need or desire you’ve seen among young women in the diocese that led to this?

Part of my role is to accompany young people as they learn how to discern their vocation. Over time, I’ve seen a growing number of young women who are open to hearing the Lord’s call for their lives. This retreat is a response to that need, and I hope and pray the FIAT Retreat will be an enriching experience for the women who attend.

What can participants expect from this retreat?

The women attending this retreat can expect an opportunity to grow deeper in prayer and in their identity as women, while also learning more about discernment. They will build a stronger relationship with Jesus Christ and meet inspiring religious sisters. The retreat includes times of prayer, small groups, personal witnesses, and talks.

Who will be leading the sessions? Are any other sisters or speakers involved?

This retreat is led by Team FIAT, a dynamic group of lay women passionate about supporting other young women. In addition, consecrated religious sisters from various communities within the Council of Major Superiors of Women Religious will be present, helping to make each retreat a unique and enriching experience. They will give talks, lead small groups, share their testimonies, and offer a joyful witness to the beauty of consecrated life.

As a religious sister yourself, what do you hope young women will take away from this retreat?

As a religious sister, I believe this retreat will help young women grow deeper in their identity as beloved daughters of the Heavenly Father. It’s an opportunity for them to hear and embrace the truth of who they are while discovering the path toward a deeper relationship with Jesus.

What would you say to a young woman who feels a tug in her heart but is unsure if this retreat is for her?

I would say: Listen to the Lord through prayer, especially in Adoration. If you feel the invitation to learn more and discern, respond to the Lord with a “yes.” You’ll know you’re on the right path when you feel peace, joy, and calm. Don’t be afraid to see where God is leading you.

Sr. Vazhappilly wants everyone to know:

“For those discerning, take the opportunity to attend any events offered by the Office of Vocations and ask the Lord to guide you in your discernment.
For those supporting discerners, remind them not to be afraid, and pray for them.”

May we all pray for an abundance of young people who are courageous in saying yes to God:

Prayer for Vocations

God our Father,
You made each of us to use our gifts in the Body of Christ. We ask that You inspire young people whom You call to the priesthood and consecrated life to courageously follow Your will. Send workers into Your great harvest so that the Gospel is preached, the poor are served with love, the suffering are comforted, and Your people are strengthened by the sacraments. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

To sign up for the retreat, visit: FiatMinistries.org/Retreat