Recognition will promote vocation

In this year of the Clergy and Consecrated Persons there will be many ideas, plans and projects to focus on for their welfare as individuals and as community.

I have an idea which others can develop.

Almost all priests and consecrated persons were born in a parish territory. Canonically they belong to that parish by birth. Their priestly ordination and religious profession then are said to confer a special honor on the parish because in calling them to priestly service and vowed life God honors also their source of origin, which is, the place, the land of their birth. Hence vocation is not only personal; it is also territorial.

In response to this “territorial” or more appropriately “parochial” honor and distinction, the parish or the locality through its leaders led by the parish priest recognizes the priests and religious by name. Once a year it holds a celebration honoring these native Sons and Daughters who were highly favored by God with a gift of vocation.

The presence of these “natives”, if not in person, at least their photo, in the annual parochial celebration will definitely create interest in the parishioners, especially the youth, on the importance of the priestly and consecrated life.

I am sure resourcefulness and creativity are always available to make this a memorable event in the parish every year.