Discernment.

To follow the Lord is life itself. If he is calling you, he has already given you what’s necessary to respond.

There are so many noises demanding our attention, but only he wholly deserves it. Practice identifying and tuning out all that keeps you from him.

“I won’t be happy.” “I feel the desire to be a husband and father.” How do we reconcile real questions like these with a potential vocation?

Discernment occurs in prayer. If Jesus called the Apostles in the midst of a relationship, why wouldn’t he do the same for you? How can we foster a faithful and daily relationship?

A man hearing the potential call of Jesus should get as close to him as he can. What better place than the Sacraments, like daily Mass.

Knowing that others have come before you allows you to know there is a clear road, narrow as it may seem. Reading the lives of saints and discernment books allows your heart to fan into flame.

Since Genesis, God has taught us that it is not good for man to be alone. This reigns true in priesthood and friendships, too. When a man feels a potential call, he should seek out those friends that he can lean on, confide in and walk with.

When the call towards priesthood remains persistent, a young man should seek out a spiritual director. This director is a priest with whom you meet with regularly, talking about what’s been happening in your prayer, life and discernment.

The vocation director isn’t a “recruiter.” Rather, he is that priest that has been specially assigned to help young men along the path of discernment. Though a young man should never hesitate or fear reaching out to him, it can often be perceived as an initial formal step.

It’s all about giving the Lord time and space to speak. What better opportunity than to go away for a day or three to really focus with the Lord, listening to his quiet yet powerful voice.

Discerning a vocation can be tough. Often times, attending a “Come and See” to a real seminary can help a young man discern. “If he’s calling me… can I picture myself here?”

How do I know when I’m ready? What’s it like to actually apply? Where would I go?