The Real Vocations Crisis

What should you do to help the vocations crisis?

This is the first time in a many years that no priests were ordained in our diocese, and it’s during times like these that people throw around the phrase “vocations crisis”.

I’m sure the idea that there is a vocations crisis will come as no surprise to you, but I think the solutions that we propose in this episode will.

Today, I talk to Fr. Roza, our Vocations Director, and he suggests that the ultimate solution lies in reviving the faith of the laity.

But…if you want more tangible answers, to…

What can I do for vocations?

• Go on a retreat. If you want to help others hear the Lord’s voice, you must hear it in your own life and be in line with the Lord’s desires for you.

How do I accompany a young person in their discernment of the priesthood?

• A young man discerning will ask, “Do I have what it takes? Could I do what Father does? and What will people think? You don’t need the answers, but you do need to be attentive and supportive. And be excited to just ask the questions with them!
• If you can, feed their questions. Encourage them to talk to a priest they are comfortable with. Provide them with a community – find ways to connect them to other people who love the Lord and are helping people
• Ultimately, help them to love God first rather than to enter the seminary. Ask, “What is God offering to me and to you in this moment? and What is the  desire of your heart when you are close to and free before the Lord?”
• Pray for young people and for their parents.
• Offer young people more opportunities to encounter Jesus.

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Jim Jansen – Director of Pastoral Services, Archdiocese of Omaha

Fr. Andrew Roza – Vocation Director, Archdiocese of Omaha