www.vocation.com - Can I say I have depressive symptoms to get out of the

	Alexis asks: I am serving in the army, and I finally accepted that God wants me to be his priest. The problem is that I have 2 years left to serve, but I feel that I have to do everything possible to become a priest starting now. So I either choose to go to war, which I don't believe in or I can say that I have depressive symptoms to get out. What should I do? Will the Church forgive me if I choose the later and let me study to become a priest or will I be looked down upon?
	Dear Alexis, There is one simple principle to remember here, and then some minor considerations to make. The first principle is that you cannot do evil so that good may come. In other words you cannot lie in order to be free to do something you think is good. So, if you don't have depressive symptoms you can't say you do in order to be released and join a seminary. Another question for you to consider: why did you join the army if you don't believe a soldier is ever justified in going to war? The answer to this question will help you get to know yourself better. A final note, if God is in charge and your duty is clear you can put everything in his hands for these years ahead. Get to know your chaplain; continue to grow in your knowledge of your faith; do what you can to spread your faith to your buddies; don't be afraid to pray and always to act in a way that is consistent with your faith and Catholic morality. God bless.


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