The process of discerning a vocation to the priesthood or religious life is a highly personal one. Some people know, without any doubt, from an early age that they are called, while others struggle with uncertainty for years. Ultimately, it is something that only the individual can perceive — guided by the Holy Spirit.
Still, it is possible to offer general advice about the discernment of one's vocation, because certain signs will accompany the call.The two most important signs are:
• First, the individual will feel the desire to serve God — a desire which goes beyond mere curiosity.
• And secondly, there will be no impediments to pursuing a vocation (such as: having already entered into the married state).
If these two signs are present, it could mean that the individual is authentically called to the priesthood or religious life.
At this point, there are two mistakes someone might make. One would be to rush impulsively into a vocation without a period of discernment. (However, modern religious life is structured to minimize this possibility.) Another mistake would be to wait too long to pursue a vocation, while endlessly debating within oneself and being exposed to the temptations and allurements of the world. Certainly, the devil will try to derail as many true vocations as possible. And often, people have waited so long to answer God's invitation that they lose their opportunity.
Fortunately, there are constructive things one can do to acquire a greater certainty about one's calling.
• The first is to practice the Catholic faith assiduously — with devotion and reverence. Frequent the Sacraments, especially Mass and Confession. And try to remain always in a state of grace. (For how can God speak to you, if you sever communications with Him?)
• Secondly, pray for the specific intention of knowing your vocation. Pray after receiving Communion and before the Blessed Sacrament. You might also want to make a novena, or have a Mass offered for your intention. It is particularly beneficial to seek the intercession of the Immaculate Mother of God in order to be more certain about your vocation. For just as she initiated Jesus' public life at the wedding feast of Cana, she is also the Mother of all true callings to the priesthood or religious life.
• And lastly, seek the advice of someone who has experience in the discernment of vocations. For example, the vocation director for a religious order, or a diocese, would be experienced in this matter.
It can be quite difficult to discover one's calling in life. Yet the struggle is well worth the peace and joy an individual experiences, when they finally know what God wants them to do.
The Franciscan Missionaries of the Eternal Word would be interested in hearing from Catholic men, 21 to 35 years old, who think they might be called to a life such as ours. Our Vocation Director has helped many young men discern their vocations and he may be able to help you, too. Just click on the "Contact Us" link at the top of the screen, if you would like to send him a message.
Following are links to two additional resources.
The first is a transcript of a homily given by Pope Benedict XVI at XX World Youth Day in Cologne, Germany, in which he gives some excellent spiritual guidance for seminarians on their journey to the priesthood. The second is a link to a booklet written by Mother Angelica, entitled Come, Follow Me, explaining how Jesus calls some to follow Him in a special way and the effects that the three vows taken by religious have on their souls.
At this point, there are two mistakes someone might make. One would be to rush impulsively into a vocation without a period of discernment. (However, modern religious life is structured to minimize this possibility.) Another mistake would be to wait too long to pursue a vocation, while endlessly debating within oneself and being exposed to the temptations and allurements of the world. Certainly, the devil will try to derail as many true vocations as possible. And often, people have waited so long to answer God's invitation that they lose their opportunity.