A Franciscan Vocation?
So, you have a reasonable idea that you
have a vocation to religious life, but is it a Franciscan
vocation? How do you know?
A vocation to the Franciscans has a number
of components to it. When you think about the notion of being a
friar, is it the idea of living with like-minded men in an
enriching life of work and prayer together that excites you? If
so, that is a promising sign; community is an important and
quintessential element of Franciscan life.
Francis did not lay down any particular
sort of work or job for the friars, the “life of the Friars
Minor is this: to live the Holy Gospel of our Lord, Jesus
Christ,” he wrote. An attraction to living out that Gospel in
its fullness is another good indicator of a Franciscan
vocation.
There are many virtues associated with
Francis: simplicity, courtesy, humility, a sense of joy and a
delight in creation. These are more than just ideals about
which you can say, “Oh yes, I like those!” They are values that
you should see lived out in your life right now.
Do you show concern for those neglected
and despised by society and identify with them? Do you care for
creation and build bonds of brotherhood and community amongst
people? Do people see you as a herald of joy and a man of
peace? Above all, do you want to follow in the very footprints
of Jesus and make his message come alive again in your life and
work? These are signs of a healthy Franciscan vocation.
What now?
It can be really helpful to open yourself
to another person and talk about these things. Perhaps you can
seek the advice of people especially trained in discernment like
a spiritual director or a vocation director. You might want to
talk to your parish priest or a Religious - or you can contact
us. Don’t worry that you might get cornered into having to
join; a bad decision is as unhelpful for us as it is for you!
We want you to feel content and relaxed in any decision you
make.
Above all things, pray. This is the most
important thing you can do. A vocation is more than a choice of
career; it is a loving response to a generous God. By opening
yourself to God in prayer, you will allow the Holy Spirit to
touch your heart and speak to you. This is the path that
Francis pursued in reaching his own decision. There is no
substitute for prayer.
You may wish to use that prayer that
Francis used as he prayed before the Crucifix of San Damiano:
Most High, glorious God,
Enlighten the darkness of my heart.
Give me true faith, certain hope, perfect love,
sense and knowledge, Lord,
That I may carry out your holy and true command.
Amen.
