Frequently Asked Questions
1. What exactly is a “vocation?”
In a religious context, vocation refers to the way God invites you to serve Him in the world. Through our Baptism and Confirmation, God calls us to live out our faith in a particular manner. You can respond to God's call as a single individual, a married person, an ordained priest, or a vowed religious. The fundamental vocation for every individual is to pursue holiness! This calling involves loving and serving God, adhering to His commandments, and joining Christ in the work of redemption through love and service to others. Additionally, each of us is called to a secondary vocation, a "state in life" where we are meant to embody holiness.
2. What is the role of a priest?
The role of a priest is to connect people with Jesus and to bring Jesus to the people. Priests accomplish this mainly through preaching the Word and celebrating the Sacrifice of the Mass. Parish priests administer the sacraments—Baptism, Confirmation, the Eucharist, Penance and Reconciliation, Anointing of the Sick, and Matrimony (with Holy Orders reserved for bishops)—while also tending to the everyday needs of the parish entrusted to him.
3. How do I know what God is calling me to do?
Pray daily, seeking God’s guidance on His plan for your life. Focus on asking: "Jesus, what do You want me to do?" Be attentive for His response! The heart is the primary source of revelation, so listen with your heart. The discernment journey in the priesthood also involves the Church. The local bishop ultimately determines who is called and who is not, with support from the vocation office and the seminary. This entire process is known as "discerning one’s vocation."
4. Will I be happy if I do not follow God’s plan for me?
If you do not pursue the vocation for which God created you, you may experience a level of happiness in this life and can even achieve the ultimate salvation, but you may not experience the fullness of joy that you could have found if you followed your true calling. This highlights the importance of discernment. Naturally, every vocation comes with its own challenges and hardships. However, there is immense joy in dedicating one's life to Jesus!
5. Are most priests happy in their vocations—in their lives?
Yes! Catholic priests typically find joy in their vocations, with numerous studies indicating that they rank among the happiest individuals in the United States!
6. Why can’t priests get married? Is living celibate difficult?
Catholic priests in the Roman Rite do not marry. They choose to devote themselves entirely to Jesus and His community. The commitment to celibacy serves as a powerful symbol to the world, demonstrating that true happiness can only be found in Jesus. Sacrificing the significant aspects of marriage and family powerfully illustrates the reality of Jesus Christ—He is worthy of our lives and sacrifices. Every vocation demands considerable personal sacrifice. Yet, there is immense joy in such sacrifices when offered for Jesus and others!
7. Should priests be allowed to get married? Maybe more men would consider priesthood. Wouldn't that be better for the Church?
Certain individuals believe that married priests might connect more effectively with married couples and that a priest's wife could serve as a bridge to the women in the parish. Or that a holy family led by a priest could exemplify Catholic family life in a tangible way. Perhaps we should ask the question, “Would this be what is best for the Church?” As mentioned above, celibacy for the sake of the Kingdom is a powerful sign that Jesus is real! And that He is worth living for, sacrificing for, and dying for.
8. Don’t priests feel lonely?
Loneliness touches every person at some point. It is a fundamental aspect of the human experience. Even those who are married can feel isolated at times, despite being surrounded by their spouses and children. Priests, although constantly among people, can also experience loneliness. However, one of the blessings of the priesthood is engaging with individuals during the most significant moments of their lives: birth, Baptism, Confirmation, First Communion, Marriage, and death. When loneliness does creep in, Jesus is there to fill that emptiness, just as He does for individuals in every vocation.
9. Do priests get paid?
Yes! Priests receive compensation to cover their necessities, including purchasing and maintaining a vehicle, taking vacations, and engaging in typical recreational activities. Priests benefit from room and board provided by the church, resulting in minimal personal expenses.
10. Is the daily life of the priest interesting?
The daily routine of a priest can be constantly evolving! While it presents significant challenges, it is equally rewarding. At the end of the day, he can reflect, saying, “Lord, today I dedicated myself to You.” What a beautiful sentiment to close the day with! The priesthood is fulfilling, primarily because of the fascinating individuals involved.
11. Can priests do anything they want for recreation and fun?
Yes! Priests are free to pursue any recreational activity, provided it aligns with the principles of the Christian life. Many priests enjoy playing sports such as golf, basketball, softball, and various athletic pursuits. Additionally, some appreciate activities like watching movies, attending plays, and indulging in literature. There are also those who enjoy hunting, fishing, and a wide array of other recreational options!
12. I feel drawn to the priesthood, does that mean that God is calling me to be a priest?
It’s possible, though not guaranteed. A man should engage in prayer often, listening with both heart and soul to discern what God wishes for him. If you feel drawn to this path, continue praying, attending Mass, and embracing a Christian lifestyle. By living a Christian life, Jesus will guide you when the time is right. Participate in diocesan-sponsored retreats and discernment events. Additionally, consider speaking with your parish priest or the vocation director, they can assist you in understanding if God is calling you to the priesthood.
13. What qualities does the Church look for in a candidate for the priesthood?
A strong candidate embodies the qualities of a practicing, devoted Catholic. This individual attends Mass weekly, prays daily, follows the commandments, and strives to serve others. Additionally, he should be mentally, emotionally, and physically healthy, caring, compassionate, understanding, and receptive to God's will.
14. I don’t think I am “holy” enough. Can I still be a priest if I’m not very holy?
Pursuing Holiness (Emulating Jesus) is a lifelong journey for everyone, regardless of their vocation. Don't be concerned if you don't perceive yourself as particularly holy at the moment. God will shape you gradually, day by day and week by week, preparing you to be His instrument when the time is right. In the meantime, make it a point to participate in the sacrament of Penance at least once a month. Acknowledge your sins, receive the sacraments, and pray daily. You may be astonished at how “holy” you can truly become!
15. Is it easy to become a priest?
It is certainly not a simple journey! A man aspiring to become a priest must first attend college for four years, including at least two years dedicated to philosophy. Following college, he is required to attend a seminary for an additional four years to obtain a master’s degree in divinity. Most individuals spend eight to ten years in education after high school before being ordained as a priest! Don’t let this deter you. God consistently provides us with the grace needed to fulfill His calling.
16. Eight to Ten years, is all this education necessary?
As St. John Paul II noted, a priest acts “in the name and person of Christ himself.” Time in seminary serves as a period for gradually adapting one’s life to align with the identity of the person the priest embodies. A well-rounded liberal arts education, combined with a profound understanding of theology and spiritual life, is essential for a priest.
17. What seminaries are used by the Diocese of Shreveport?
The Diocese of Shreveport sends its seminarians to four different seminaries:
St. Joseph Seminary College and Abbey in Covington, LA
Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans, LA
The Pontifical North American College in Rome, Italy
St. Meinrad Seminary in St. Meinrad, IN
18. What if I go to the seminary and find it’s not the right fit for me?
If you find it’s not your calling, you’re not alone. In truth, many vocation directors will assert that the best way to truly discern your calling to the priesthood is to attend seminary. Immersing yourself in a setting where everyone is grappling with the same question, clarity will emerge. If you find priesthood is not for you, you emerge a much stronger Catholic due to the experience!