Questions about a Vocation to the Priesthood

Frequently Asked Questions about Discernment

How do I know what God is calling me to do?

You must pray every single day, asking God to reveal his plan for you. Do not ask yourself, “What do I want to do with my life?” This is the wrong question! Rather, you should be thinking and asking: “Jesus, what do You want me to do?” And listen for the answer! Listen with your heart, not just your head! The discernment process in the priesthood must also include the Church. Your bishop is the one who will ultimately decide who is and who is not called to be a diocesan priest. He is assisted in this by the Office of Vocations and the seminary.

What is a Vocation?

A vocation is a call from God to do something specifically for God and for his kingdom. The primary vocation of every person is to be holy. It is the divine calling to love and serve God, to obey his commandments, and to cooperate with Christ in the work of redemption by loving and serving others. Everyone is called to live the vocation of holiness, but everyone lives it in a special way according to the plan of God.

Who is a priest?

A priest is a Catholic man called by God to proclaim the “Good News” of salvation to the world and to lead God’s people in worship, especially in making present the saving sacrifice of Jesus on the Cross in the Eucharist. He is also privileged to bring Christ to people in the Sacraments: he gives the life of Christ to people in Baptism; he forgives their sins in Reconciliation; he anoints the sick; he officiates at weddings. In general, the priest brings Jesus Christ to people in their spiritual needs.

Are most priests happy?

Most priests are extremely happy in their vocations. The life of a priest is a very rewarding life. The media often give an incorrect impression of priests; that they are largely unhappy, frustrated and angry. This is simply not true. Priests are far happier in their lives than most of the population and well over 90% would do it again if given the chance. They have even done studies that prove this. Check out this article here.

Why can’t priests get married?

Catholic priests do not get married so as to dedicate themselves completely to Jesus and to His people. The sacrifice of celibacy is a sign to the world that only Jesus can give us the happiness that we all crave. Giving up something as important as marriage and family is a powerful sign to the world that Jesus Christ is real! He is worth living for and sacrificing for. No, it is not easy, but neither is marriage. The fact is, every vocation requires great personal sacrifice. And there is great joy in sacrifice. And there is great joy in sacrifice when it is done for Jesus and for others!

Do priests get paid?

They do! Because a priest does not have a family and because he lives a simple life, he does not need a lot of money. However, diocesan priests receive a salary which enables them to buy their necessities, to buy and maintain a car, to take a vacation, do normal recreational activities, and save for retirement. Priests are provided room and board so their expenses are minimal.

What do priests do for fun?

A priest can do anything he wants for recreation, as long as it is consistent with the Christian life. Many priests play golf, basketball, softball, and other sports. Others enjoy movies, music, and reading. Some like to watch hockey, ski, hunt, fish, travel, and many other hobbies!

If I am attracted to the priesthood and priestly life, does that mean God is calling me to be a priest?

Possibly, but not necessarily. A man must pray a great deal, listening with both heart and soul to know what God wants him to do. If you feel some attraction at this point, just continue to pray, go to Mass, and live a Christian life. If you are living a Christian life, Jesus will let you know when the time comes. Also, go talk with your parish priest or with the vocation director. Try to come to diocesan-sponsored retreats and discernment nights. The vocation director can help you determine if in fact God is calling you to the priesthood.

I’m not very “holy.” Can I still be a priest?

Holiness (to be like Jesus) is a lifetime endeavor for every person in every vocation. Don’t worry if you don’t see yourself as very holy right now. God will form you slowly, day by day and week by week, so that you will be ready to be his instrument when the time comes. But for now, use the sacrament of Penance at least once a month. Repent of your sins, receive the sacraments, and pray every day. You will be surprised at how Christ-like you can become.

How do I become a priest?

After being accepted as a candidate by a diocese, a man who wants to become a priest will go to the seminary. In the seminary, he will receive the preparation, both spiritual and academic for priesthood. If he enters right after graduation from high school, he’ll work towards an undergraduate degree, with an emphasis in philosophy, before continuing in a graduate program in theology. Seminary training and discernment ranges from six to nine years, depending on one’s educational background, before a man is ordained a priest. But do not let this discourage you. God always gives us the grace to do what He asks us to do.

What are the qualities that the Church looks for in a candidate for the priesthood?

A good candidate is a practicing, believing Catholic. He attends Mass at least weekly, prays everyday, obeys the commandments, and tries to serve others. He must be mentally, emotionally, and physically healthy. He must be open to the will of God and willing to learn and grow. Do you have these qualities?

If I decide to go to the seminary to “give it a try,” am I committed for life?

No, you are not. Most vocation directors agree that the only way to really know that you have a vocation to the priesthood is to go to the seminary and try. It will become more and more clear to you once you are in an environment where everyone is also discerning the priesthood. There is no obligation to stay in the seminary if you discover that priesthood is not for you. Some people go to the seminary and eventually become priests while others discover different ways of serving the Lord.