National Vocations Awareness Week

Did you know that in our country, compared to 60 years ago, there are 20,000 fewer priests and 129,000 fewer religious sisters? At the same time, the Catholic population has grown steadily during that time.

November 1st begins Vocation Awareness Week. This year it is celebrated from November 17. It is an annual week long celebration of the Catholic Church in the United States 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 one of these particular vocations.

Observance of Vocation Awareness Week began in 1976 when the U.S. bishops designated the 28th Sunday of the year for the celebration. It was moved to the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord in January. In 2014, it was transferred to November.

During Vocation Awareness Week, please pray that young people in today’s society will hear and respond to God’s call. Do your part to encourage them to consider the priesthood and religious life.