Hey Deacon!

A few weeks ago, our diocese held its annual Clergy Institute, where priests and deacons from across the diocese gathered for prayer, fellowship, and continuing formation. One of the featured presenters was Vocation Ministry, a national organization that helps dioceses promote and support vocations to the priesthood and religious life. Their message was both simple and inspiring: vocations flourish when the entire Catholic community embraces the responsibility of praying for, encouraging, and supporting those whom God may be calling. In the coming weeks, our parish will have an opportunity to join in this important mission.

Throughout the history of the Church, God has never ceased calling men and women to serve Him as priests, deacons, religious sisters, and religious brothers. Yet every vocation begins with an invitation from God and is nurtured by the prayers, encouragement, and support of the Christian community. Vocations do not emerge in isolation. They grow within families, parishes, schools, and friendships where faith is lived and shared.

Our diocesan partnership with Vocation Ministry is not simply about increasing numbers. It is about creating a culture in which people are open to hearing God's voice and courageous enough to respond. While many are called to marriage and family life, others may discover that God is inviting them to the priesthood or religious life. The possibility of such a call deserves our prayerful attention and support.

Jesus instructed His disciples, "Ask the Master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest" (Matthew 9:38). Those words remain just as urgent today. Our Church needs holy priests to celebrate the sacraments, preach the Gospel, and shepherd God's people. We also need religious sisters and brothers whose lives of prayer, service, and witness reveal God's love to the world.

Experience shows that vocations flourish where they are expected, prayed for, and openly discussed. Young people are far more likely to consider a vocation when they encounter priests and religious who serve with joy, and when they know their family and parish will support them in exploring God's call. A healthy vocation culture begins not in the seminary or convent, but in our homes and parish communities.

Perhaps the most important thing we can do is foster an atmosphere where vocations can flourish. Many vocations begin with a simple question: "Have you ever considered that God may be calling you?" A word of encouragement from a parent, grandparent, teacher, priest, deacon, or fellow parishioner can help someone take the first step in discerning God's will.

God's call is often heard quietly. It may come through a growing desire to serve others, a deeper love for

the Eucharist, a call to prayer, or the example of a joyful priest or religious sister. Discernment unfolds through prayer, the sacraments, Scripture, and participation in the life of the Church.

As our diocese launches this renewed effort to foster vocations, let us renew our own commitment as well. Pray daily for those whom God is calling. Encourage young people to be open to His plan. Support vocation initiatives through your participation and stewardship. Most importantly, never underestimate the impact of your prayers, example, and encouragement.

The Lord is still calling laborers into His harvest and each of us has a role in helping those vocations flourish. May we be a parish family that helps others hear God’s voice and find the courage to answer with generous hearts: "Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening"

(1 Samuel 3:9).