www.vocation.com - Diocese or order?

	James asks: Hello Fr. Anthony. My name is James. I am currently a seminarian for the diocese and I have been observing your order for some time and have talked to a friend that went through the summer program. I have been researching the website and have found it to be very inspiring and helpful. For me it is not a matter of if I want to be a priest, but if I should be diocesan priest or join your order. The unified vision and the disciplined lifestyle and the intense formation of your order is the salt that makes me want to learn more about your community. I am aware that there is a summer program and I was wondering if, at all possible, I would be able to attend even if I paid for it. Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thank you Fr. Anthony and may the peace of Christ be with you! - James
	Dear James, Thank you very much for your note and for the nice things you say about our community. As regards your question, I think you should take into account that the summer program is for men considering religious life in our community, and you are already a seminarian with the diocese. There are tremendous needs in your diocese, so I really think you should take that fact as being a pretty strong indication of what our Lord is asking of you, and the reason he led you there first. Before you pursue any contact with us you should speak to your spiritual director and your Bishop or vocation director, so as to get their input, and only if they are in agreement should you go ahead to come to some of our activities, and if they are in agreement I will be more than happy to help you. Be sure of my prayers as you work through this step in your vocation and search more deeply for what God is asking from you. God bless.


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