Vocation: Discernment
As a young woman, Jeanne Jugan realized that God had a plan for her life, and yet for many years she had no idea exactly where he was leading her. She confided to her mother, “God wants me for himself. He is keeping me for a work which is not yet founded.”
Years went by before Jeanne saw the unfolding of God’s plan, but when God revealed her mission, she followed it with her whole heart. If she were here today, Jeanne would offer this advice to anyone discerning their vocation:
- Pray often, asking God to reveal his will and to help you know yourself better.
- Find a church or chapel that has Eucharistic adoration and set aside time each week for silent adoration.
- Live a sacramental life: attend daily Mass whenever possible and take advantage of the sacrament of Reconciliation.
- Read Scripture and other good spiritual books such as the lives of the saints, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, classics of the spiritual life, etc.
- Find a spiritual director who has a good understanding of the consecrated life.
- Visit a religious community.
- Commit to some form of service to God’s people, especially the poor.
- Spend time with friends who are also serious about their faith, and who will support your desire to grow spiritually.
- Spring into Service Program: Our live-in service program is open to college-age Catholic women who wish to experience our life and mission firsthand over an extended period of time. Week-long experiences are possible during fall, winter or spring break. LEARN MORE
Click here to learn more about upcoming discernment events.