DISCERNMENT GUIDE

Discovering your vocation is not easy. With all the distractions and noise in our world today, you may miss God’s subtle promptings. In order to follow Christ’s call, take some time to slow down, quiet your heart and listen to His loving voice. God has a plan for you. All he asks is that you respond to him with openness and love. Use these resources to help you discover God’s plan for you.

DISCERNMENT CHECKLIST

• Spend time in prayer and quiet reflection.
• Read Holy Scripture, asking for God’s wisdom and guidance.
• Attend Mass regularly to nurture your spiritual life.
• Talk with a priest, mentor or trusted family member.
• Talk with Vincentian priests and brothers to learn about our values, mission and ministry.
• Meet regularly with a spiritual director.

PRAYER FOR DISCERNMENT

Lord God, what do you ask of me? I am open to Your Son’s invitation: “Come, follow me,” but there are so many ways to do that. Grant me the wisdom to know which is the way for me.

Through Your inspiration and grace, Your servant, St. Vincent de Paul, founded the Congregation of the Mission to follow Jesus, whose own mission was “to bring Good News to the poor.”

Help me to know if You are calling me to dedicate my life to that same mission as a Vincentian priest or brother. I desire to follow You and to be faithful to Your call. Give me the courage to follow You wherever You lead me. Amen.

FAQS

Many people are not unfamiliar with the process of discerning a call to the religious life. For some, questions and concerns may keep them from following their true calling. We invite you to browse our frequently asked questions, to learn more about life as a Vincentian priest or brother. If you’d like more information or if you have additional questions, please let us know how we can assist you.