Bulletin Update - Discerning Our Call

The past two weeks, the pastoral plan updates have focused on the overarching goal of our three-year plan, and on the first of its three priorities: “Fostering a Personal Relationship with Christ.” This week we focus on the second priority, “Discerning Our Call.” This piece speaks to our understanding of vocation. A vocation, as understood by the Catholic faith, is not only a word used to describe those called to the priesthood and religious life. Vocation is a call that each of us has, which challenges us to live out our discipleship in a particular way. It is a call that resonates with the various gifts that we have been given, as well as with a particular need in the local or broader community. The two goals within this priority focus on both vocational discernment for all members of the collaborative, as well as vocations to the priesthood and religious life.

Goal 1 - “25 young men will attend the RCAB St. Andrew Dinner by 2018.” The St. Andrew dinner is for young men (teenagers) who are interested or simply curious about the priesthood. The Pastoral Plan committee will be working with the pastoral staff to identify possible teenagers, as well provide a space for conversation in the parish for all teenagers and young adults as they continue to discern where Christ may be leading them.

Goal 2 - “A team will be called forth, who will develop and initiate a program for vocational discernment for all walks of life, to be implemented by June 2018.” Vocation is rooted in the Sacrament of Baptism. We are Baptized priest, prophet, and king, and are therefore called to live out our discipleship through this threefold ministry of Christ. Starting this summer, Masses with infant Baptisms will include prayers of the faithful that focus on vocation and its grounding in the Sacrament. As we begin to actively promote vocation in the collaborative, prayer and awareness are foundational steps.

Next Steps: The realization of this priority is only beginning to take shape. Much more needs to and will be happening. If these ideas and vision resonate with you, please contact a member of the pastoral staff. Happy Sunday!