Ordination to the priesthood is fundamentally both a divine call and a sacred gift from God. It is not merely a personal decision or career choice but a response to an invitation from the Lord to serve His people. Christ Himself emphasized the necessity of seeking laborers for His mission when He instructed His Apostles: “Ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest” (Matthew 9:38). This highlights that priestly vocations originate from God’s initiative rather than human ambition.
Those who discern a call to the priesthood respond with faith and generosity, echoing the words of the prophet Isaiah: “Here I am, send me” (Isaiah 6:8). This willingness reflects their openness to God’s plan, an attitude of surrender, and a deep commitment to serving the Church. However, recognizing and understanding this divine call is not always immediate or self-evident. It often unfolds gradually through prayer, reflection, and guidance from those responsible for vocational discernment.
The Church plays a crucial role in this discernment process. Through spiritual direction, pastoral formation, and prayerful examination, those in charge of vocations help candidates identify the daily signs that reveal God’s will. These signs may manifest in an individual’s desire for a life of service, a deepening love for the Eucharist, a growing sense of peace in considering priesthood, or the encouragement of the faith community.
To nurture and support those discerning a priestly vocation, the Church provides structured opportunities for reflection and spiritual growth. Among these are special gatherings held during Lent and Advent—two liturgical seasons that emphasize repentance, preparation, and renewal. These gatherings are open to anyone who wishes to attend, offering a sacred space for prayer, meditation, and guidance. They serve as invaluable moments for aspiring candidates to deepen their understanding of God’s call, seek clarity in their discernment, and strengthen their commitment to following Christ in the ordained ministry.
