Experienced Catholic people only.
Thank you
2007-08-26 14:18:01 · 15 answers · asked by GOD'S IN HEAVEN'S FAV 1 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
Through much prayer and discernment.
Every priest I have ever met has suggested that a person make a commitment to go to daily Mass and spend some time in adoration before the Blessed Sacrament daily, praying to God for wisdom.
You should also ask others you trust to pray for you, and you should begin a formal discernment process as soon as you are able. You can do this through the diocese in which you live, at their seminary, or through discernment programs of certain religious orders, if you're thinking in terms of being Franciscan, Jesuit, Benedictine, etc.
I know a guy who went to seminary for four years, discerning his calling. He graduated in May and was just about to head to seminary (grad school level) a few weeks ago, when he felt like it wasn't the right thing for him to do. So he is taking a year off and working. He may go back, he may not. His four years in seminary aren't wasted, though. The dean of the seminary said that some of the most effective Catholic men he knows -- in terms of being dads, husbands, workers, volunteers -- are men who once felt called to the priesthood but left the seminary.
I will pray for you today!
2007-08-27 05:49:08 · answer #1 · answered by sparki777 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
What most priests answer when asked this question is simply, "you just know". God will create a direct view before you that cannot be avoided even if you tried. I've heard many priests say that they knew God was calling them to the priesthood far before they were even interested in it. They would then avoid His beckoning and they would always end up where they started.
The priesthood is a wondrous thing. Being able to consecrate the elements for the Most Holy Eucharist is something to be envied.
I myself felt called to the priesthood but the Lord instead corrected me and introduced me to my future wife.
2007-08-26 14:25:24 · answer #2 · answered by stpolycarp77 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Well, not being a man or called to the priesthood, I can't give you a perfect answer. But vocations in general... it's a feeling that that's what is right, how your life would be best spent, how you can best live your faith. For most people it's marriage; for some, single life; for some, religious life. If you aren't sure, talk to a couple of priests and ask how they knew.
2007-08-26 14:31:12 · answer #3 · answered by csbp029 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Although I'm not Catholic, I would sincerely take the time to pray about this decision. Serving God is an honorable thing, but only if this is where God is leading you.
Do you believe that this is how God wants you to serve him?
Obviously, you realize the black marks lately about the priest's reputation (especially in terms of sexual issues). Can you make a promise (vow) to God to strictly observe the celibacy rule and not violate anyone's trust?
How do you feel about working in a job where everything you do will be watched and judged by others?
Can you remain calm under pressure?
You will be privy to a lot of confessions, would you trust yourself to keep those confessions private between you and God?
May God grant you His wisdom on this decision.
2007-08-26 14:26:15 · answer #4 · answered by Searcher 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you believe you are being called to the priesthood then you spend a great deal of time praying about it. You believe this may be a way you can help others and serve God. Events in your life keep bringing you back to this possible calling. Then you speak to a priest in your parish and he will generally send you to another priest who is responsible for vocations in the diocese. You have a discussion with him and then he advises you on your possible next steps.
2007-08-26 14:24:13 · answer #5 · answered by Dr. D 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I'm not an experianced catholic myself, but one of my better friends is a very religious catholic. She often says she gets 'feelings' after prayer and is convinced that the holy spirit urges you to do things.
But if your not getting the signals, then monastries ALWAYS accept people for a day or two, and you could get a feeling for religious life that way. But dedicating your life to religious service is a big step, so don't rush into it.
2007-08-26 14:26:03 · answer #6 · answered by carabatzis_2000 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
though i'm not a catholic male, i am a catholic female. you will know when you are being called to the priesthood because god will lead you into it. you will hear his voice if he wants you to become a priest and devote your life to him...atleast thats what i have always heard!
2007-08-26 14:23:08 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
My school's priest said he went to Mass often, and then one time "Priesthood" flashed once above the altar. He struggled with the decision, but then said how can I argue with God? and became a priest.
2007-08-26 14:22:55 · answer #8 · answered by Serpico7 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
The internal pull to the vocation blots out all other considerations.. When being in a Church and imagining yourself serving God makes you the happiest.
2007-08-28 20:25:53 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Only you can know that one. The only useful piece of info anyone here can give you is learn the art of spiritual discernment.
Everyone needs to discern their mission God has for them, but especially those who are compelled to become clergymen.
Good luck.
2007-08-27 06:16:42 · answer #10 · answered by Daver 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋