World Day of Prayer for Vocations

By setting aside the fourth Sunday of Easter, also known as Good Shepherd Sunday, the Church responds to Jesus' command to “Pray to the Lord of the harvest to send laborers into His harvest” (Mt. 9:38, Lk. 10:2). This day reminds the faithful of our need for shepherds, such that we turn to the Lord to pray for more of them, and to pray that those being called be open and persevere in their vocations. While not discounting other vocations, the Church focuses this day on vocations to the priesthood, religious and consecrated life, as well as to a sense of mission among all peoples. See below for Pope Francis' message for this day as well.

Will you make a special effort to ask the Lord for more vocations to the priesthood and religious life?

• Pray for the priests and sisters who have ministered to you throughout your life, both living and dead.
• Keep our parish priests in your prayers throughout the week.
• Encourage your children, grandchildren, or other young people to consider a vocation as a priest or religious brother or sister.
• Pray a rosary for more young men and women in our diocese to respond to God's call.

If you or someone you know might be called to explore their vocation to priesthood or religious life, contact Fr. Michael Isenberg, vocations@arlingtondiocese.org or 703-841-2514.