What is Discernment?

Through our baptism, we are called to love and serve God with our lives. We must discern how God desires us to live out that love and service. This process takes time and action. One must sift out and separate what is coming from God and what is not. Discernment is different from decision making. While decisions are more autonomous and take less time, discernment on the other hand involves a mutual listening to God’s movements in my life as well as listening to my own desires. Discernment is more that about myself: seeking spiritual direction and asking advice is a good idea in order to see if I am on the right track. Here are some guidelines regarding Discernment. To discern is to…

• spend time listening;
• admit that we are powerless over our own ability to be certain, to be in control, to have all the answers;
• set  out on a  journey with God, confident that we will be cared for, that  we will have all we need and that we have nothing to fear;
• really live life by the choices we make and now allow ourselves to be victims of      circumstance;
• take responsibility for the direction of my life, and not depend on anyone else for my happiness;
• actively cooperate with God in co-creating a future full of hope, meaning and promise;
• be alert, frightened, surprised, joyful and rooted (sometimes all at once).        

"Could God be calling me?”Seven Vocation “Indicators”

If you have ever asked yourself the question, “Is God calling me?”, then you should give it some serious thought. A vocation may be sparked by such a question and begin a period of reflection and discernment that may lead to a life of ministry in the church.

Young people often ask, “But how do I know?”, and there is no easy answer! A life of ministry in the Church is not meant for everyone; however some are called to give their lives in service to others. The process of discernment begins with a simple reflection on some qualities – even if it is just budding- a vocation to ordained priesthood or religious life may be your calling.

• Sensitivity toward others – a person who stands up for others, who wants to be helpful to others.

• Attraction to organizations that help other – people suited to religious life are also drawn to groups like the Peace Corps, St. Vincent de Paul Society, working in soup kitchens, volunteering at hospitals or nursing homes, etc.

• Idealism – a young person who is idealistic, desires to make the world a better place by working for justice and peace.

• Leadership-someone who works well with others, who possesses natural leadership talents, who strives for achievement;

• Creativity- a young person who appreciates music, drama, or the other arts can make God’s work come alive for others in new ways.

• Orientation toward people- people who enjoy being around others are naturally drawn to the caring professions, such as teaching, health care, psychology and social work;

• Faith filled- a young person who has a desire for a deeper meaning in life and a deeper relationship with God.

What is in your future?  
Could God be calling you to the priesthood or consecrated life?
Do you have what it takes?