The primary mission of the St. Francis vocation ministry, Vocatio Dei, is to help all parishioners discern God’s will in their lives, no matter the calling. Focusing on this goal, and in God’s time, vocations will flourish, leading to more seminarians, religious men and women in formation, and holier marriages. Our ministry fosters a culture of prayer for vocations, and we implement uplifting and encouraging activities that create a fertile environment so God can plant the seed and the Holy Spirit can water that seed in the hearts of individuals.
Our Vocations Programing
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Discernment Groups
- The Melchizedek Project Discernment for Men: small discernment groups for young men as they discern a vocation to the Catholic priesthood. Meets monthly w/ Fr. Dave and other special guests. Sign up to attend.
- Avow Discernment for Women: a small discussion group for young women who want to make the journey of discernment together. Meets monthly. Sign up to attend.
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Prayer
- Seven Sisters Apostolate: A group of women called to strengthen the Church by ensuring that a Holy Hour is prayed each day of the week for the sole intention of a specific priest or bishop—a “holy wasting” (cf. Mt. 26:10) or lavishing of prayer for his deeper conformity to Christ. We currently are praying for Fr. Dave, Deacon Eric, Retired Deacon Steve, Deacon-Candidate Ed and Bishop-Elect Fernandes.
- Traveling Vocations Chalice: Bring the blessing of one of our retired Eucharist chalices to your home or classroom for the week and place it in a prominent place in your home or classroom where you will pass by frequently. Sign up here.
- World Day of Prayer for Vocations: Held annually in May, our parish bring this special intention to every Mass celebrated and provides added resources to incorporate prayer for vocations in your everyday life.
- Vocations Adoration Service/Holy Hours: Held throughout the year, these services are opportunities to bring this special intention to the Lord in the Holy Eucharist.
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Awareness/Promotion
- National Vocations Week: an annual week-long celebration in November dedicated to promoting vocations to the priesthood, diaconate, and consecrated life through prayer and education, and to renew our prayers and support for those who are considering a religious vocation.
- Damascus Mission Campus: The camp's mission is to awaken, empower, and equip a generation to live the adventure of the Catholic faith through world-class programs and an environment of encounter. Though not specifically designed to drive vocations, from a parish operations perspective, we see these camps as a conversion engine. Camps are held year-round.
- Religious Visits to the School: In partnership with the Columbus Diocese Office of Vocations and area religious orders, we schedule several opportunities throughout the year for our parish school students meet and learn from those who have chosen a religious vocation.
Have a passion or just an idea to promote Vocations? Contact Lisa Maurer today!
