Are you wondering if you might be called to a religious vocation? Many young people on their faith journey ask profound questions about life’s purpose and the role God wants them to play. Here are some signs that you may have a vocation to religious life — as a priest, brother, sister, or consecrated layperson
1. A Deep Desire for God
- Longing to be closer to God: You feel a strong desire to know Him better and love Him more deeply.
- The importance of prayer: Prayer has become an essential part of your life, bringing you peace and comfort.
- Inspiration from the Word: Reading God’s Word inspires you and lights your path.
To deepen your discernment, check out our article: How to Discern Your Vocation.
2. Joy in Serving Others
- Helping others brings you joy: You find real happiness in giving your time and energy to help those around you.
- Sensitive to the needs of the vulnerable: You’re moved by the suffering of the most vulnerable and feel called to support them.
- Desire for justice: You have a strong sense of justice and want to make a positive impact on the world.
3. Inner Peace
- Peace when considering a vocation: When thinking about a religious vocation, you feel a profound sense of peace and serenity.
- Strength in the face of challenges: This peace remains even when doubts or obstacles arise, giving you the strength to continue.
- Trust in God: You trust that God will always guide you, no matter the circumstances.
Discover more about the Steps to Embrace Religious Life in our dedicated article.
4. Perseverance
- Long-term commitment: A vocation is a lifelong journey. Despite joys and challenges, you’re ready to persevere.
- Willingness to make sacrifices: You’re prepared to make sacrifices along this path, and these sacrifices feel enriching.
- Faithfulness to your calling: Your determination to remain faithful to this call shows the sincerity of your vocation.
Be inspired by others’ experiences in Stories of Young People Who Chose Consecrated Life.
Savais-tu que…
- Attraction constante : Une attirance continue vers un certain mode de vie ou une forme de service peut être un signe de vocation. Si tu te sens régulièrement appelé à une vie de prière, de service communautaire ou d’enseignement, prends ce sentiment au sérieux.
- Le temps du discernement : La vocation est un mystère qui se révèle avec le temps. Il n’y a pas d’urgence à prendre des décisions précipitées. Écouter ton cœur, suivre les conseils de ton accompagnateur spirituel et être attentif aux signes que Dieu te montre sont essentiels.
Talk to God
Almighty and Merciful Lord,
In this time of searching and discernment, I turn to You with an open heart, eager to understand the path You are calling me to follow. Guide me in my journey, so that I may recognize the signs of my true vocation.
Grant me the wisdom to hear Your voice amidst the noise of the world. Fill my heart with Your peace, so I may feel the serenity that comes with choices made in Your love. May the joy of following Your steps light my way, even through challenges and uncertainties.
Inspire me with the example of those who have answered Your call with courage and dedication. Strengthen my will to embrace the necessary sacrifices, keeping my eyes fixed on the reward of Your eternal presence.
I also ask for the grace of humility to accept the advice and support of those around me, recognizing Your wisdom in the words and actions of others.
May my life be a reflection of Your love and light — a living testimony to the unique call You have placed in my heart. Lead me each day closer to the fulfillment of this vocation, for my joy and for Your greater glory.
Amen.
