Vocations

Every Christian has a vocation to a particular way of life. Vocations may include teaching, caring or being a parent. It is by following these vocations that the faithful live out God's plan.

Two particular vocations involve the church particularly intimately, the calling to the priesthood and the calling to religious life. Priests are called to serve the community through teaching, divine worship and pastoral leadership. Ministerial priesthood is conferred by the sacrament of Orders. The religious life is a life of contemplative prayer. It is normally lived as a member of a community of monks or nuns who have taken vows of poverty, chastity and obedience to the community way of life. Anyone who thinks they may have a vocation to the priesthood or the religious life should speak to Fr John.

There are several websites devoted to vocations including:

• UKPriest
• National Office for Vocations;
• UK Religious Life;

Sites for Young People

• For 11 - 16 yrs about vocations - Called Today;
• For young people considering a 'year out' - Catholic Gap Year;
• For 20 - 35 yrs thinking about their own vocation - Compass