A vocation is the universal call to holiness. Our individual vocation is a call or nudge from God and our response. Our 'vocation' is given to us as a gift. It requires that we use our own talents, passions, and personality to promote the common good. A vocation is a way to meet the needs of others and to please God. It is a response that is unique to each of us.
A vocation does not have to be seen in the traditional life-style choices of priest, brother, sister or deacon. A vocation is lived and expressed by being a good father, mother, caregiver, partner or participant in an outreach program. Those who are unable to participate in outreach programs can consider their vocation in a prayer ministry by spending time in prayer asking God to provide for and bless various needs.
A vocation can also change over time. We also believe that one can have multiple vocations.
Family/Life Status This vocation deals with where you are in life. Are you single, married, partner, a parent, a grand parent. Is your vocation raising children, being there for others?
www.Archspm.org/family (Archdiocese Family site)
Career/Job This vocation deals with work life. What is it that you want to do; versus what is it you are currently doing? Are you in transition between engagements?
Avocation/Volunteer This vocation deals with work that doesn't return a financial reward. These are passions that allow you to do those things that fulfill your life, but usually aren't a means to an end.
Religious Vocation This is the vocation most are familiar with hearing about - those who have been consecrated with a Religious vow and/or ordination. These are the priests, deacons, sisters and brothers.
www.10000vocations.org
Spiritual Direction Spiritual directors can help with finding or defining ones or vocation. Some spiritual directors are clergy or Religious, but many other lay people serve in this capacity.
www.francsicanspiritualitycenter.org, prairiewoods.org, www.womanwell.org