“Saint Joseph is an extraordinary figure, yet at the same time one “so close to our own human experience”. He did not do astonishing things, he had no unique charisms, nor did he appear special in the eyes of those who met him. He was not famous or even noteworthy: the Gospels do not report even a single word of his. Still, through his ordinary life, he accomplished something extraordinary in the eyes of God.” – Pope Francis
The 58th annual World Day of Prayer for Vocations will be celebrated by the Catholic Church on the Fourth Sunday of Easter, April 25, 2021, a day which is also commonly referred to as Good Shepherd Sunday. Inspired by the Lord’s instruction in the Gospels of Matthew 9:38 and Luke 10:2, in which Jesus exhorts the people to “ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest,” World Day of Prayer for Vocations unites the faithful in praying for those currently discerning and living out vocations to ordained ministry and consecrated life.
In his annual message, Pope Francis sets forth St. Joseph as an exemplary model of faithfulness, service, and fidelity – three characteristics that the Holy Father considers to be paramount for healthy vocational discernment. Pope Francis writes that St. Joseph was a man whose ear was attuned to the voice of God and who was proactive and firm in accomplishing His will. Even amidst the most challenging circumstances, St. Joseph never uttered a complaint nor sought praise for his faithfulness. His sole concern was caring for the Holy Family entrusted to him.
St. Joseph’s example of remaining faithful to God amidst the everyday moments of life should inspire all the faithful, but especially pastors and religious who are chosen to care for the Church in a special way. One of the many ways in which the faithful, laity most especially, can build up the Church is by promoting vocations to the priesthood and religious life. Some ideas for vocational promotion include:
In fact, the Ordination Class of 2021 Study, conducted by the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate (CARA) proves that a supportive parish environment, as well as the faithful witness of priests and religious, are very influential for vocational discernment. Some of the major findings that highlight the parish as being the seedbed of vocations include:
Bishop James Checchio, Chairman of the Committee on Clergy, Consecrated Life and Vocations (CCLV) stated that in addition to faithfulness, St. Joseph also teaches us the value of holy perseverance and patience. “We are living in very challenging times full of uncertainty and fear. Yet, St. Joseph teaches us, especially our young people, that consistent, quiet fidelity to God is what opens our hearts to receive Christ’s grace and peace. In imitation of St. Joseph, may we entrust our hearts and desires completely to Our Risen Lord.”