Come and see
The in-person experience is core to vocational discernment , allowing men to preview the lifestyle of the priesthood and learn from current priests and seminarians . “ We try to offer many opportunities for vocational discernment in the Diocese of Lansing . We have a number of discernment groups that meet throughout the diocese for men in high school and those in college and beyond ,” shared Father Whitlock . Each year , the diocese hosts annual “ come and see ” weekends at the seminary for both the college and major seminary level . The young men are also invited to a dinner where they have the chance to meet the current seminarians and the bishop . Father Whitlock expanded , “ We are also very intentional about summer placements of seminarians at parishes , so that young men in the parish have the opportunity to meet seminarians .”
Focused on the individual
When it comes to discernment , there is “ no one-size-fits-all ” approach , explained Father Whitlock . As he gets to know each man , he asks about his background , his discernment so far , what his life of faith looks like , and answers any questions he may have . He also tries to connect him with a discernment group for peer support . This personal attention allows the men to discern at the pace that ’ s right for them .
Father Whitlock continued , “ If , after an appropriate period of discernment ( which varies with each candidate ), he desires to go to the seminary and I assess that seminary would be the best next step for him , I invite him to apply .”
The lengthy application process is also a period of discernment . Among many other requirements , candidates must complete a psychological evaluation and a background check . They participate in a series of meetings with a lay and ordained board and lastly , meet with the bishop .
By catering support for each man based on their unique background and phase in the discernment process , candidates for the priesthood receive the mentorship and experience needed to make a prayerful and informed decision .
Building a culture of vocations
The work of vocations within the Companions of the Cross and the Diocese of Lansing helps build a culture of vocations in their faith communities . Father Hyginus mentioned that it began with the order ’ s founder Father Bob Bedard , who experienced a “ conversion from churchman to intentional disciple .” In doing so , he set the example of renewal and service , which are critical elements of discerning the priesthood . Father Hyginus cited St . Paul in Romans 12:2 ( NRSV ), “ Do not be conformed to this world , but be transformed by the renewing of your minds , so that you may discern what is the will of God — what is good and acceptable and perfect .”
This focus on nonconformity is a tenet of the Companions of the Cross , their culture , and evangelization work . Father Hyginus explained , “ Our secular culture values style over substance , personal charisma over personal character . These trends risk negatively influencing the life of the Church and her leaders .
Seminaries ought to be vigilant lest they produce ‘ churchmen ’: men who simply work for the Church without zealously buying into her mission of evangelization , rather than intentional disciples of Jesus Christ .”
Vocational discernment should be encouraged at all ages to allow Catholics , young and old , to be attuned to God ’ s will for their lives . In addition to supporting those who proactively seek direction in their discernment , the Diocese of Lansing makes “ vocation visits ” to all their Catholic schools . Father Whitlock shared , “ Our seminarians serve the major diocesan liturgies so that they remain visible to our people . Our parishioners and the Knights of Columbus are very generous in financially supporting our seminarians and their education , for which we are deeply grateful .”
By fostering priestly vocations , the Church not only guides the men chosen to answer their God-given calling but also ensures the Church and her people continue to benefit from the service , leadership , and faith of the priesthood . The priest , in practicing and upholding the sacraments , brings Christ to all those he serves . Let us always pray for those who have entered this holy state , those who are discerning , those who are struggling to answer the call , and those who guide them . The work of vocations in the Archdiocese of Detroit , the Archdiocese of Lansing , the Companions of the Cross , and beyond allows men to understand how the priesthood will transform their lives , and in doing so transform the lives of so many others , leading them to peace in Christ .
By fostering priestly vocations , the Church not only guides the men chosen to answer their God-given calling but also ensures the Church and her people continue to benefit from the service , leadership , and faith of the priesthood . shms . edu 15