I may be making a bold presumption, not having children of my own, but after many decades of ministry as a religious priest in the high school apostolate, I have developed a strong impression: at the end of the day, parents ultimately want their children to be happy. Parents spend countless hours talking with their sons about future careers and what success looks like.

But how many parents talk with their sons about finding happiness and fulfillment as a priest?

From personal experience, I can tell you that every Basilian priest I know is deeply grateful for his vocation and for the joy that comes from serving the Church as a religious priest.

This week, November 2–8, is National Vocation Awareness Week. On Friday, the Basilian Director of Vocations, Fr. Steven Huber, CSB, will visit Theology classes to speak about vocations and Basilian life. I encourage you to take a moment this week to talk with your son about the possibility of discovering joy and purpose in the priesthood — perhaps even as a Basilian priest!

Did you know?

• Men who attended a Catholic secondary school are six times more likely to consider becoming a priest or brother.
• Among male never-married Catholics, 3% (about 350,000 men) have very seriously considered a vocation to the priesthood or religious life.
• The average age when a person first considers a vocation is between 17 and 20, though half are 18 or younger at the time.

Basilian history reminds us that priests come in all shapes and sizes, temperaments, and interests. Perceived “holiness” or “devotion” is not a prerequisite; authentic holiness grows in relationship with God and others. What unites every vocation is a sincere desire to serve God and His people.

Our Lord said, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Pray, therefore, the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.”

Please join me in this prayer:

O Lord, send holy priests and devoted religious into your Church,
that your name may be blessed, your Kingdom come,
and your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

Mary, Alma Mater and Mother of Priests — pray for us!

St. Basil the Great — pray for us!

Father Patrick Fulton, CSB | Principal