By David Karas, Correspondent
Later this month, Catholics across the Diocese of Trenton will be asked to help do their part to foster vocations – and to support and encourage young men who may be discerning a vocation to the priesthood.
During the weekend of April 25 and 26 – Good Shepherd Weekend – faithful in each parish community will have the chance to participate in this year’s “Called by Name” campaign.
In a video and written message to be shared with parishes, Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., announced the campaign, stating, “The Diocese of Trenton has been blessed with hundreds of wonderful priests throughout the last two centuries. To continue these blessings, I am announcing a ‘Called By Name’ campaign for next weekend, April 25 and 26.
“As your Bishop, I am asking you to prayerfully reflect and consider the young men you have encountered in your life . . . at home, in the parish, even at work . . . that you think might have a call to the priesthood or have the characteristics of what a good priest should be,” Bishop O’Connell said.
As part of the campaign, priests will spend that weekend preaching on vocations and the call to the priesthood. Additionally, cards will be distributed for those gathered to nominate or recommend a young man who they believe may be called to the priesthood, and to share contact information with the diocesan Vocations Office.
Those who are nominated – or who nominate themselves – will be invited to a special day of prayer and reflection on June 12, the Solemn Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and will be encouraged to open their hearts to their vocation.
“This initiative is near and dear to my own heart,” Bishop O’Connell said. “While I was President of Catholic University, this campaign proved to be effective in leading many young men to enter the seminary and eventually to be ordained. I invite you to prayerfully participate in this holy effort.”
“Called By Name” will be coordinated by Father Christopher Colavito, diocesan vocation director.
• For further information, contact Father Colavito at 609-403-7409; ccolavito@dioceseoftrenton.org, or visit www.godiscallingyou.org.
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