The entire People of God is responsible for promoting vocations, and does so chiefly by persistent and humble prayer for vocations.”
Pope St. John Paul II, Ecclesia in America (1992), No. 40
We all have a role in praying and encouraging vocations today – to religious brothers and sisters, to the Sacrament of Marriage between a man and woman, and the the Sacrament of Holy Orders. During the 2nd lockdown restrictions Deacon Steven Gaudet was my roommate for a few shorts week! He has now returned to St. Peter’s Seminary in London, ON, to finish his studies. We prayed together, ate together (*he did most of the cooking*), shared some ministry together, and played chess. Here is my quick interview with him regarding his journey towards answering the call God in Our Lord Jesus Christ was putting on his heart to become a priest for the Archdiocese of Ottawa-Cornwall. The first part was a live chess game, blitz 5+4! Guess who won? Enjoy!

Fr. Jon & Deacon Steven. (1.d4, Nf6; …)
God, I know You love me and have great plans for me. But sometimes I am overwhelmed by the thought of my future. Show me how to walk forward one day at a time. May I take heart while I search openly, learn about all the choices, listen to others for advice, and pay attention to my own feelings. By doing these things, may I hear your call to a lifestyle and a career that will let me love as only I can, and let me serve others with the special gifts that You have given me. Amen.
Vocation Prayer for Discernment