Types of Vocations

Introduction

Each human being, created in the image and likeness of God, has a fundamental vocation as a member of the human family.

Through the sacrament of Baptism, each person receives "a call" or vocation. All are called to holiness and to serve. This call can be lived out in a variety of ways - as a married or single person, or as a priest, brother or sister.

Mission

Everyone who is baptized is called to witness to the good news in the world, wherever they are. Some are called to go out to other parts of the world. If you want more information about missionary life and opportunities, contact the Vocation Director at the Contact Us section. "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you."(Matthew 28:19)

The Universal Call to HolinessThrough baptism, each member of the Church is called to holiness and to share in the mission of the Body of Christ. There has been a flourishing of lay ministry within the Church. Lay people are encouraged to nurture and use their gifts and talents for the sake of the Church and the world.

Such lay ministry requires increased training in the faith, and in development of ministerial skills. To pursue this further you are encouraged to begin within your own parish and in discussion with your local pastor.

Permanent Deacons

Permanent deacons are men who are ordained for a special role within the Church - service to the diocese and to its bishop. Permanent deacons focus on acts of charity, including ministry to people who are disadvantaged, imprisoned, bereaved or ill. They assist the bishop and priests in liturgical celebrations, and may conduct baptisms, witness marriages and preside at funerals.

Religious Life

Since all the baptized share a common relationship with God, all are called to be "religious" or holy in the broad sense of the word. Some men and women, however, choose to live a particular life-style called religious life.

These people join a community of people that follows a specific tradition or spirituality patterned after the life and teaching of the founder of that community. Many religious profess what is referred to as the Evangelical Vows; poverty, chastity and obedience. There are religious priests, brothers and sisters.

Christian Marriage

Each Christian husband and wife is called to be a Sacrament of love through their union with each other, their caring for a family and living witness to others. The family is called to be the "domestic church."

Then God said, "Let us make humankind in our image, according to our likeness ... So God created humankind in his image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them." (Genesis 1:26,27)

Single Life

A Christian living a single life is called to be a generous disciple of Jesus where they live and work within the world, and among the people they share life with as friends, family and colleagues. "This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you." (John 15:12)

Information on this page is courtesy:
hamiltondiocese.com and vocationinfo.ca