How do you know if God is calling you?
That’s simple. God is calling you. The question is not if. It is “to what?”
All of us have a vocation. For some that vocation, or call from God, is married or single life. For others, it is in religious life that we find our greatest fulfillment and happiness.
As you pray your way through this meditation on five paths toward religious life, listen quietly within your heart for a still, small voice. That voice may be God nudging you to explore the adventure of life as a Catholic sister.
Asking for “a friend"?
Let’s just say you believe a friend of yours would make the perfect candidate for religious life. Why do you think so? Does she walk one or more of these paths? If so, then she (or you!) might want to talk with a vocation minister to explore further. Take a look!
What is a “call”?
More often than not a call from God comes in human form . . . words of encouragement from others can help someone discern where they are being called in life. You may know someone whom you think would be a good candidate for religious life. How do you recognize her? You may meet her on one of these five paths.
The path toward trust and hospitality
She has relational and interpersonal skills. She enjoys other people, has good self-esteem, is able to trust and be trusted, expresses gratitude openly, is sensitive to the needs of others, and respects their dignity in responding to those needs. She exhibits hospitality, empathy, and compassionate concern.
If it is a friend you’ve recognized here, then please share with her your encouragement to consider religious life.
Here are some conversation starters:
Do you know what I admire in you? I notice _________________.
I see how deeply you care about __________.
God uses your gifts when you_________________.
I’ve seen you grow in_________________________.
Your commitment to _____________________ is an inspiration to me.
Then say: I think you would make a great sister. Would you give that some thought? The world needs Catholic sisters now more than ever. You’d be great! I promise to pray for you and support you if you want to choose this path in life.
In the 2,000-year history of the church, no one ever came to a vocation without someone to lead them to Christ.
If you’ve recognized yourself on one of these five paths, the next step is talking with a friend, a trusted spiritual guide, or a vocation minister. Trust the movement of God’s spirit within you and do not be afraid.
If you would like support from us, we are happy to help. Please contact Sister Teresa Marron at 217.787.0481, or srteresa@spdom.org, or visit us at www.springfieldop.org.
Credits:
Dominican Sisters of Springfield, Illinois