For years, Jacob has thought about being a priest. Sometimes it has been just a passing thought. A few times, especially during Mass, it’s been a very strong attraction. And sometimes—especially when he is dating—the thought seems to be altogether absent.
Jacob’s experience is actually very common among young people who enter religious life or seminary. While some report always wanting to be a priest or religious as long as they can remember, others make the commitment only after a long period of discernment.
What do you do during that long period? The short answer is to try doing some things that priests and religious do. Of course, you can’t administer the sacraments, which is central to the priestly life, or fully live a religious charism and apostolate in community, but there are plenty of other things you
can do.
Here’s a couple of ideas for helping discern your vocation.
Teach
There’s an old saying: “We learn by teaching.” When you have to explain the Faith to others in a compelling way, you quickly learn that good preparation is vital. And that means you’ll devote plenty of time mastering your subject material before stepping to the front of the class.
Teaching RCIA, leading a Bible study, helping with the youth group—these are all great discernment roles. By taking the initiative to teach, you’ll discover the real joy there is in bringing Christ to others. When the Holy Spirit works through you to touch someone’s heart, it’s both humbling and exhilarating. If you find satisfaction in this, it could be one sign you’re called to religious life or the priesthood.
Serve
 |
St. Vincent de Paul spent his time teaching the faith and aiding the poor.
St. Vincent, pray that I may have a generous heart for the service of God in the people around me! |
One seminarian related: “My pastor knew I was thinking about the priesthood, and he trained me to take Communion to the sick. Honestly, just thinking about the smell of the hospital gave me second thoughts. Every week, I cringed at the thought of going, but I was always, always grateful by the time I left. I didn’t like the smell any better, but I knew I was bringing Jesus to people in need.”
Let’s face it; sleeping in Saturday morning is a lot easier than waking up early for the Habitat for Humanity build. And yes, you may have to DVR your favorite History Channel show because the Religious Ed classes or Knights of Columbus meet on Thursday evenings.
We can all think of a thousand reasons we’re too busy to serve, but the truth is we all have the same amount of time in a week. It’s how we choose to use it that’s different.
The life of a religious or priest is not his own. He is consecrated for others, not himself. That’s why serving others is a great way to discern your vocation.
Discovering your true vocation is not easy. It takes time, along with a lot of soul-searching and prayer. But on a practical level, if you seek out opportunities to teach and serve, you can get a small taste of the supernatural vocations. Go talk to your pastor, a chaplain, or a priest you trust, and ask how you can get involved.
