The vocations ministry will be “hard at times” and is not for the fainthearted, said Fr Matthew d’Hereaux. “It is a labour of love.” Speaking at the first Generation S’ Vocations Assembly at Holy Faith Convent, Couva last Tuesday, Fr d’Hereaux told the gathering of interested parents, youth leaders, teachers, catechists, religious, lay consecrated persons and members of parish vocation committees that it was significant that the assembly was being held on Labour Day.
To applause from the more than 100 participants, the Episcopal Vicar for Vocations and Priestly Formation praised the work of all who, through its 75 years, laboured at the Seminary of St John Vianney and the Uganda Martyrs, and affirmed all who have laboured for vocations to the priesthood, religious life and lay consecrated life.
He said it was necessary to “pass the baton” and continue the work for religious vocations for generations to come. “We must create in our parishes, schools, families a culture of vocations,” he remarked while giving the welcome address. “We need to encourage, support, motivate” and call forth the gifts of all as Church to build this culture.
Archbishop Jason Gordon delivered the feature address, ‘Vocations and You – A Call to Co- responsibility’. Sr Philip Geofroy SJC did the opening prayer. Corinne Mohammed and Stefan De Gale each led a workshop during the day. Mohammed did the morning session entitled ‘Co-responsibility for Vocations Promotion: The Role of the Family in shaping life’s decisions’ while De Gale did the post- lunch session ‘Co-responsibility: The Role of the Catholic Teacher in Promoting Vocations in the School.’ The closing session, ‘Call to Action’ was led by Laurayne Lucky. More in next Sunday’s issue.