Reflection days at Cathedral link confirmation and vocations

By Monsignor David Cox

"God is calling you! How will you respond?" In 2004, the diocesan Vocation Committee and the Youth Ministry Office sought to put that statement and question clearly before the youth of our diocese, and the Vocation Reflection Days were initiated. What better place to begin than with our youth as they prepare to complete their initiation into our Catholic faith that began at baptism? In baptism, we first receive the call to follow Jesus. That relationship is strengthened in the Eucharist and confirmed with the outpouring of the Spirit at our Confirmation.

Within that call to follow Jesus, we have to discern our vocation to Priesthood, religious life, marriage or single life. The goal of the Vocation Reflection Days is to give the young people of our diocese some tools to help them discern their call to follow Jesus.

The basic structure of the day has remained the same over the years. A priest shares his story with the young men, a sister shares hers with the girls, and a couple shares their story of being called to married life. Other things have changed. For instance, talks have been added for the parents and sponsors who are invited to attend the day. The talks are about how to help guide their child in their vocational discernment, and what to do if your child has a priestly or religious vocation.

Videos and a warm up music with Shannon Cerneka, youth minister at St. Peter parish in Jefferson City, have also been added. The day also includes a holy hour. Here, the young people are guided in prayers, led in song, and encouraged to pray quietly to Jesus regarding their life choices. How can we live out our call to follow Jesus if we never spend any time with Him?

The conclusion of the day is for everyone to gather with our bishop to celebrate a beautiful Mass together. It is a great way to prepare for the Sacrament of Confirmation and to begin to ask, "How will I respond to my call to follow Jesus?" Since 2004, more than 5,000 youth and nearly 7,000 adults have participated in the Vocation Reflection Days.

Msgr. Cox, pastor of St. Patrick parish in Rolla, is a member of the Diocesan Vocation Committee.