Parish Resources
Parishes do not need complicated programs to support vocations.
Often, the most important thing a parish can do is simple: pray for vocations, speak about priesthood naturally, invite young men personally, and make it easy for someone to take a first step.
Practical tools
01
A simple card with a QR code that points people to the vocations website. Use it in the vestibule, parish office, youth ministry, Catholic schools, men’s groups, or wherever someone may need a quiet invitation.
Where might God be leading you?
If priesthood has been on your mind, even quietly, take a first step.
Watch real conversations. Start a conversation.
A short message parishes can place in the bulletin or newsletter.
Do you know a young man who may be open to priesthood? Sometimes a simple invitation can make a difference. Visit the Archdiocesan Vocations Office website to watch real conversations about discernment and learn how to take a next step.
03
The official prayer for vocations, to pray for our archdiocese.
O God, we earnestly ask You to bless this archdiocese with many priests, deacons, and consecrated women and men, who will love You with their whole strength and gladly spend their entire lives to serve your Church and to make You known and loved.
Bless our families; bless our children. Choose from our homes those needed for your work.
Mary, Mother of the Church, pray for us and pray for our clergy and all those in consecrated life. Obtain for us many more.
Original prayer written by +Most Rev. William O. Brady, Archbishop of Saint Paul and Minneapolis.
Revised in 2025 by +Most Rev. Bernard A. Hebda.
03
A short guide for how to invite someone without pressuring them.
A personal invitation does not need to be dramatic. You might simply say:
“Have you ever thought about priesthood? I see qualities in you that made me wonder.”
Then encourage him to pray, stay close to the sacraments, and talk with the vocations director.
FAQ
Start small.
Pray for vocations regularly, mention priesthood and religious life naturally, invite men personally, and make the first step easy by pointing people to the vocations website.
Be simple and honest.
You might say, “Have you ever thought about priesthood?” or “I see something in you that made me wonder if God could be calling you.”
The goal is not to pressure him. The goal is to help him take the question seriously.
The Vocations Office may be able to help with parish visits, talks, events, or connections depending on availability.
The best first step is to reach out and share what your parish is hoping to do.
If your parish would like help encouraging vocations or pointing people toward a next step, reach out to the Vocations Office.