Single men and women in the Diocese of Amarillo between the ages of 18 and 40 who want to learn more about the priesthood or religious life are invited to attend the inaugural Vocation Awareness Day Saturday, June 18 at the Catholic Student Center, 2610 Fourth Avenue in Canyon.
“The Vocation Awareness Day is designed to help single Catholic men and women between the ages of 18 and 40 find answers to questions they may have about life as a Priest, Sister or Brother,” said Father Scott L. Raef, Vocations Director for the Diocese of Amarillo and pastor of St. Anthony of Padua Church, Dalhart. “The day will include presentations, discussions, time for prayer, question and answer periods and one-on-one personal conferences with Priests and Sisters who volunteer to serve as staff.”
There are no fees for the Day Retreat, according to Father Raef and meals will be furnished.
“This is a no pressure way to find out more about the priesthood or religious life,” he said. “No one will pressure you or seek a commitment.”
Father Raef said the Vocation Awareness Program has been successful in several dioceses throughout the United States, giving support to hundreds of men and women in their discernment process.
“The program provides an opportunity for attendees to meet other Catholic men and women who are also considering a church vocation,” said Father Raef.
During the course of the Day Retreat, there will be a number of presentations, including:
Presentations on Discernment;
Presentations on Prayer;
An opportunity to learn more about diocesan Priests, Religious Priests, Brothers and Sisters;
Opportunities to talk one-on-one with a priest or sister;
Question and Answer sessions; and,
Time for personal prayer.
The day will conclude with Mass and a meal, according to Father Raef.
For more information on Vocation Awareness Day, the Priesthood or Religious Life, contact Father Raef through the Diocesan Vocation Department at 806-244-4128.