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If you would like to speak to someone about a priestly or religious vocation, including becoming a deacon, please call the Office for Vocations at the Archdiocese of LA at 213.637.7515 or go to www.LAVocations.org
“Becoming a priest or a man or woman religious is not primarily our own decision…Rather it is the response to a call and to a call of love.” –Pope Francis, Address to Seminarians and Novices, July 6, 2013
As Catholics, by virtue of our baptism, we are called to a vocation to serve and proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ in our lives. Some are called to single life, others to marriage, and still others to priesthood and religious life. Ultimately, this vocation is as unique as the person who is gifted with it.
In particular, discerning a priestly or religious vocation can be a challenge, especially when others, even those close to us, may not be encouraging. Candidates for religious life should exemplify the following:
- A love for the Catholic faith
- Generosity
- A desire to help other people
- A personal relationship with God
- A capacity and desire to learn
- A respect for other people
- Openness to other cultures and ethnic groups
- Ability to work collaboratively
- Good social skills
- The ability to enjoy one's own company and a variety of friendships
- The courage to take risks
- A healthy self-image
- The ability to state an opinion that might differ from that of others
- Devotion to prayer
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