What have we learned?

If Vocation Boom! has one objective, it’s to promote an understanding of the vocation to priesthood as the Church has always understood it. And, we want to provide assistance and resources to those who are on the “front lines” in the Church’s efforts to bring about an increase in vocations.

That’s why, before the site even launched, we sent out a link to the site along with a short survey to all of the diocesan vocation directors in the United States. We are grateful to the many who took time out of their busy schedules to answer our survey questions. The feedback they gave will continue to supply us with guidance as we enhance the web site.

Among the feedback we received were three key points. Based on the experience of vocation directors, young men today, in order to be able to adequately discern a call to the priesthood, need to:

• Form connections
• Have access to accurate information
• Receive support from family and friends

Later this week, I will begin a series of posts dealing with these overarching points, as well as some of the other critical areas noted by the vocation directors. I invite you to offer your comments on any of these important matters, especially if your own experience has helped you come to a solid understanding of how to address them.

In the meantime, please help us spread the word about Vocation Boom! We’re hearing from people everywhere that they are discovering the site and referring it those who might be interested in knowing more about the priesthood. Your help in doing that is greatly appreciated!