For the past twenty-four hours the NZ Vocations Directors have been meeting in Christchurch. We are each appointed by our diocesan bishops to encourage youngish people to consider their live-choices as being a response to God, knowing that we are happiest and healthiest in life when we live in harmony with God and God’s intention for us. While many other Religious communities focus on vocations for their own religious orders, our role is to focus on the call to serve as diocesan priests for the six dioceses of New Zealand.

Our conversation at the meeting was robust and inspiring as we addressed many issues. This morning we focussed on the potential of social media in making contact with those who may be open to the possibility of priesthood.

The company was great, and dinner last night was a highlight of the gathering. It is good for us to be together.

As I write I am reminded of Cardinal Newman’s great Vocation prayer – suitable for all people, single, married, priest.

God created me to do Him some definite service.
He has committed some work to me,
which He has not committed to another.
I have a mission.
I am a link in a chain,
a bond of connection between persons.

Therefore I will trust Him.
Whatever I am, I can never be thrown away.
If I am in sickness, my sickness may serve Him;
if I am perplexed, my perplexity may serve Him;
if I am in joy, my joy may serve Him;
if I am in sorrow, my sorrow may serve him.
He does nothing in vain. He knows what He is about.
Amen.

Frs. David Dowling (Wellington), Sherwin Lapaan (Auckland), Bryan Buenger (Palmerston North), John O’Connor (Christchurch), Joe Stack (Hamilton)