- Take Time to Pray – To discern a vocation to the Religious or Consecrated Life, take time to pray and meditate in silence about your vocation. Allow Christ to speak to your heart and to reveal His will for you.
- Find a Spiritual Director – Find a spiritual director, somebody with whom you can be open and honest, who can help you to develop and deepen your relationship with God and to know yourself better.
- Talk to a Priest, Brother or Sister – Ask a priest, brother or sister in your local area to put you in touch with a vocation director.
- Research – Read up on consecrated religious life. Look at good literature on vocations and surf the Internet for more information.
- Reach out – Contact religious communities that interest you. Do not be afraid to ask questions or to request additional information on their history, apostolate or charism.
- Spiritual Self – Deepen your relationship with God and know yourself better.
- Network. Get Involved. – Visit those communities to which you may feel called. Many have regularly scheduled “Come and See” weekend visits or periodic vocation retreats that you can attend. Build a relationship with the one where you have a sense of “coming home.” Get involved in its discernment programs or apostolic activities. Pray with them and ask the Lord if this is for you.
- Consult with close Family and Friends – Discuss your thoughts and feelings with your family and friends. God often uses other people to affirm a vocation or to help you see things in a different perspective.
- Be Patient – Wait for the Lord. Discerning your vocation is a gradual process. Develop the virtues of patience and perseverance.
- Do not be afraid – Respond to God’s grace. Do not be afraid to make a decision.
Remember, religious formation takes years to complete, and each step will help you grow and better understand and embrace your calling. Be not afraid to follow Christ! He will fulfill all your desires to lead you to live a holy life for Him!