National Vocation Awareness Week

National Vocation Awareness Week (NVAW) is an annual week-long celebration of the Catholic Church in the United States dedicated to promote vocations to the priesthood, diaconate and consecrated life through prayer and education, and to renew our prayers and support for those who are considering one of these particular vocations.  NVAW began in 1976 when the U. S. bishops designated the 28th Sunday of the year for NVAW.  In 1997, this celebration was moved to coincide with the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, which falls on January 13 in 2013.  Beginning in 2014, NVAW was moved to the first full week of November. (via USCCB.org)

 

Do you hear me calling?

The Word of God reminds each of us in the Book of the Prophet Isaiah: “You are my servant; I have chosen you and have not rejected you. Do not be afraid for I am with you (Isaiah 41: 9-10).”

This is “National Vocation Awareness Week,” a time that the Catholic Church in our country sets aside to promote vocations to the priesthood, diaconate and consecrated life as a religious sister or brother through prayer and education. We are asked to encourage young people in particular to consider dedicating their lives to follow the Lord Jesus in a special way. But, in order to “consider,” to “dedicate,” to “follow” the Lord, you must first listen for his call.

To read Bishop O'Connell's message in full, click here.

To listen to a podcast of this message, click here.

Prayer for Vocations


God our Father, we thank you for

calling men and women to serve in your

Son’s Kingdom as priests, deacons, and

consecrated persons. Send your Holy

Spirit to help others to respond generously

and courageously to your call. May our

community of faith support vocations of

sacrificial love in our youth and young adults.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives

and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy

Spirit, one God, forever and ever.

Amen.