Discernment: Starting Points

Discernment:  The past few blogs have focused on where to start in the discerning of your vocation in life, especially the vocation to priesthood or religious life. We have looked at the importance of self-knowledge and seeking feedback from family, friends, and colleagues who respect God call to religious life and to the priesthood.  We also recently looked at the important of honest self-appraisal and keeping a journal, recording your thoughts on a particular subject. Writing about your personal accomplishments and the current events in your life can also help you discern your vocation.

Other important  starting points or aspects of discernment of a vocation include praying regularly, being involved in your local parish ministries and talking with a spiritual companion who is trained to listen objectively and thus help you clarify your life in relationship to God.  Take the time, also, to visit different religious communities in your area, that is, in particular,  to visit a Vocation Director of various religious communities and, if considering the priesthood, look up the Diocesan  Vocation Director and arrange a visit!