Vocations in our Diocese - Could it be me?
A cross-section of our Diocesan Priests were asked about their journey to the Priesthood, and here is a brief summary of the replies...
If you ask a priest ‘why did he become a priest?’ the answer, for a lucky few, will be very clear and evident. For many others, however, it would be difficult to attempt to put into words just quite how the process happened. As every story of vocation to priesthood or religious life is very different, perhaps it is easier to look at some of the qualities that people called to religious life feel are of benefit to their ministry.
One of the first qualities that were mentioned by many who were asked was empathy, if we don’t know where people are coming from, how can we hope to journey with them? Alongside this is the need to be understanding and open minded, to the many and varied aspects of human life. A need to be thoughtful, forgiving, patient and hopeful that wherever we are as pilgrims through life, is not where we will be at the journey’s end.
There is a need for people around them, a need for their support and encouragement, their gifts and skills, a need for their understanding and forgiveness. The quality of optimism and a good sense of humour are essential in looking for and celebrating the joy of life.
Alongside that is courage of conviction that whatever blessing or hardship we endure, to believe that the Lord is present in every time and place, transforming our lives with his love and mercy.
To reflect on
Recognising Motivation for Ministry
Read Paper (pdf 150K)
A thought-provoking academic paper exploring the threads in our motivation for ministry. Read and reflect.