Discernment Journey

How do I know if God is calling me to be a home missioner?

Samuel’s calling in the sacred scripture can serve as an example of how we might be called and how we are to discern God’s call.

“The LORD called to Samuel, who answered, “Here I am.” 1 Samuel 3:4

Each person’s call is unique to himself but there are some commonalities. Samuel, although he did not recognize God’s calling him at first, he was open to the call. After learning that it was God who was calling, he responded by saying, “Speak, LORD, for your servant is listening.”

We too are called to listen for and to be open to God’s calling us. We might hear God’s call during our moments of silent prayer. Or possibly when we reading from scared scripture. Or even more likely, maybe we will hear God’s call through a family or friend who might say to us, “you would make a good priest or brother.”

Even if you are not 100% sure if you are called or not, it is good to talk about it with someone. That is way you are being open to the possibility. Meet with your parish priest or call us here at the Glenmary vocation office. As you feel affirmed that you are being called it is good to learn about the different religious communities out there and to see where your skills and abilities are suited to serve.

It is also good to visit religious communities through online retreats or in-person visits. It is there you will be able to learn more about a specific community and discern if that is where you are being called. Too often I have heard people tell me, “I am not holy enough,” or “I don’t pray enough,” or “I have made mistakes in my past.” And therefore God can’t possibly be calling them.

The good news is our God is a loving and merciful God. God calls each one of us even in our brokenness. It is up to us to lovingly respond. “Speak, for your servant is listening.”

Contact the Vocation Office at 513-881-7411 for more information.