Vocations Sunday

THINK OF, PRAY FOR AND SUPPORT VOCATIONS

The Fourth Sunday of Easter is known as Vocations Sunday or Good Shepherd Sunday, and is marked as the World Day of Prayer for Vocations. The purpose of this day is to fulfil Jesus’ instruction to “Pray the Lord of the harvest to send labourers into his harvest” (Matthew 9:38). While appreciating all vocations, the Church concentrates her attention on raising up shepherds for God’s people – vocations to Holy Orders (the priesthood and diaconate) and to the religious life – while encouraging all who are discerning their vocation to pray more earnestly that they may hear and respond to God’s call. If you feel that you might have a vocation to priesthood or religious life, talk Fr Peter or Fr Antonio. Alternatively, you can contact Canon Stuart Wilson, our diocesan vocations promoter, by emailing stuartwilson@rcdow.org.uk.

UK Priest Website (www.ukpriest.org)

A vocation is a call from God to holiness through a particular way of life, be that marriage, consecrated life or priesthood. When a person responds positively to this call, they embrace the identity that God intended for them from the moment of conception. They take a step closer to becoming the person God created them to be. People called to the priesthood are responding to an invitation to lead a special, all-encompassing life with God.

PRAYER TO ST JOSEPH

From the National Office of Vocation, this prayer to St Joseph helps us answer God's call.

SACRAMENT OF HOLY ORDERS

There are three sacramental orders commissioned to govern, teach and sanctify.

FR ANTONIO'S VOCATION STORY

Fr Antonio relates a long journey of self-discovery that eventually led to Rome and the priesthood.

PRIEST TRAINING FUND

As well as pray for more vocations, you can support the training of our current seminarians.