Religious Vocations

Are you discerning a vocation to the priesthood or religious life?

Vocations

A vocation is God actively inviting - or calling - us to “share in his own blessed life.” In other words, God is calling us to a relationship with Him, and holiness means choosing to live and grow in that relationship. In the universal sense then, our vocation is holiness.

Having created us, God knows exactly how our particular gifts and passions can draw us and others closer to Him, and so our particular vocation will look a bit different from those around us. It’s in our particular vocation that we can find out how God is inviting us into a state of life where we can generously encounter the needs of others.

A young woman who is gifted with compassion for the sick might be called to the consecrated life within a community of religious sisters who minister in a hospital. A young man who is gifted with leadership might be called to be the leader in a parish as a priest. A young woman or man who is gifted in teaching could be called to the married life to teach their children about the faith.

Discernment Dinners

If you are interested in learning about the priesthood or religious life, we host discernment dinners for both men and women.

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Diocese of Austin

Fr. Greg Gerhart ‘09, Vocation Director for the Austin Diocese, recruits, counsels and assists seminarians during their formation to the priesthood. The office also offers programs and retreats for men and women who are interested in discerning a call to the priesthood or religious life. Finally, the office works to foster a “vocation culture” throughout the Diocese. If you are interested in talking with Fr. Greg you may email him or call (512) 949-2430.

Apostles of the Interior Life

The Apostles of the Interior Life are consecrated women who dedicate themselves to evangelization and to offering a service of spiritual assistance for the Interior formation of all who seek to know and love Jesus Christ.

They specialize in Vocational Discernment, Spiritual Formation and Direction, through individual guidance and counseling. Also included in their Apostolate is giving retreats, leading parish missions, and preparing couples for marriage.

Learn More about AVI