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Underlying Principles in Vocation Awareness

       
 

Underlying Principles in Vocation Awareness

   
  • God calls each of us. This call is rooted in Baptism, and is a way of participating in the mission of Jesus.
  • No call is better than another or more important.
  • Most people will choose marriage. Some people are single and may choose to serve God in that state of life. Others may choose to be sisters, priests, or brothers.
  • All lifestyles are needed for the sake of God’s people, to make the picture complete.
  • Priesthood and religious life continue to evolve in ways never presented by the stereotypical and negative images in the media.
  • Sisters, priests, and brothers are ordinary people who don’t claim to be perfect, but desire to be of service in how they live and work.
  • To be a brother, sister, or priest can be an exciting life of service.
  • Because there are fewer priests, sisters, and brothers, ways need to be discovered in local situations for people to have first-hand experience with them.
  • Priesthood and religious life are for healthy, happy, energetic women and men, not for people who have no other options.
  • A celibate choice is a valid and healthy way of loving that demands an integrated sense of self and one’s sexuality.
  • Terms need to be defined that are related to church ministry and the lifestyles of sister, brother, and priest, (charism, vows, formation, novitiate, etc.).
  • Personal invitation continues to be the main reason someone chooses to consider.