What
the Office of Vocations Is About
The
Office of Vocations for the Archdiocese of Hartford is committed to
fostering quality, faithful, and lasting vocations
to the priesthood. To this end, the men must be committed disciples of Jesus Christ
willing to form their lives in His likeness. St. John Vianney says, "The
priest is first of all a man of prayer." Our vocation program
places priority on daily prayer. As our world becomes more materialistic
and secular, the people of God need priests who by word and example
display holiness which is born out of a devoted prayer life. Authentic
devotion to the Blessed Mother is essential because it leads men
in the path of her divine Son.
The
Office of Vocations gives full loyalty to the Church, namely the
Holy Father,
the bishops, and in particular our own bishop. It is our
pledge to adhere to all the teachings of the Church. Those who would
be priests must believe in the value and gift of celibacy. We make
no apologies for celibacy. It is a prophetic sign of God's Kingdom.
As the Church has been plagued recently by scandal internally and
persecution externally, there are many who see celibacy as the problem.
It is just
the opposite. Celibacy is not the problem but the solution to a life
of holiness. Those who aspire to priesthood must radically conform
his life to the life of Jesus Christ who did not marry but gave himself
totally to his heavenly Father for the sake of the Kingdom.
The
Office of Vocations believes in a formation process that develops
the entire
person. Potential candidates must undergo a physical and
psychological examination. The primary purpose of this is to help
determine the strengths and weaknesses of the candidate. It will
also help to
place the seminarian in the proper academic setting. Here the seminarian
will be challenged spiritually, academically, personally, and pastorally.
God
is calling men to the priesthood. Are you one of them? The noise and distractions
of our culture can cause a spiritual deafness.
The
Office of Vocations would like to help you hear God's voice and
discern His will for your life. If you think God is calling you
the time
to act is now!
