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> Vocation: Calling > Priesthood
> Thinking About Priesthood
 Everyone is called to love and to serve God. A priest is called, in a special way, to a life of love and service among God's people in a variety of ways. Ordained ministry can include teaching in schools, parish and sacramental ministry, social work, chaplaincy and hospital work. The priesthood is an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of many people. A priest shows love to the members of a community by helping them to recognize their own gifts, and by giving them support and encouragement. It is important for priests to seek a balance between their life of prayer, work and leisure. Choosing to become a priest is not an easy decision, and the decision should not be made quickly. For most men, the sense of a call from God is something that is gradually realized. It takes time, prayer, reflection and study. Choosing to enter seminary formation is only one of the first steps to further discernment about the priesthood. How might I know if the priesthood is for me? If you are thinking about the priesthood, you might ask yourself: What really makes me happy? What is most important to me? How can I share my experiences with others? How can I best serve God in my life? Does my relationship with God sustain me and give me enthusiasm? Is my life as fulfilling as it could be? Who should I talk to? Men who are considering a priestly vocation sometimes wish to keep their thoughts confidential, while others may be anxious to share their thoughts with someone else. When you think you are ready to talk to someone, it can be very helpful to talk to: Your parish priest A family member A friend or mentor Your school chaplain What is the next step? Your parish priest or someone at the Vocation Office of the Archdiocese will help you to set up a meeting with the Vocation Director. The most important qualification is a willingness to discern your vocation with the help and support of other people. Formation for the priesthood usually takes between 5 and 8 years, depending on your post-secondary education background. However, formation is much more than academics. Seminary formation programs have a focus on the development of the total person - human, intellectual, spiritual and pastoral. Being a priest is a great life! It has given me a feeling of joy in serving God and his people. | |||||||||||||
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