National Vocations Awareness Week 2024

The Office of Vocations in the Archdiocese of Port of Spain promotional arm, affectionately known as “Generation S,” is on a mission to inspire a passion for vocation among all Catholics. Our focus extends beyond the traditional priesthood and religious life; we aim to help everyone discover their unique calling from God.We are delighted to welcome Fr. Kenwyn Sylvester as our new Vocations Director.

Taking over from Fr. Matthew D’Hereaux, who dedicated nearly a decade to this essential work, Fr. Kenwyn brings a wealth of energy and enthusiasm to the role.As we celebrate Vocation Awareness Week 2024, we invite everyone to reflect on the importance of cultivating a culture that encourages each Catholic to discern their unique vocation. Inspired by Ephesians 4:1-16, this week reminds us that the call to follow Christ extends far beyond the priesthood or religious life. It encompasses all walks of life – marriage, lay consecration, and singlehood.

Vocation Awareness Week is a wonderful opportunity to deepen our relationship with Christ and seek clarity in understanding His plan for our lives. Our mission is simple yet profound: to create an environment where every Catholic embarks on a spiritual journey that draws them closer to Christ. Along this journey, we learn to listen to His voice and recognize the unique call placed in our hearts. Remember, vocation is not merely about choosing a career; it’s about responding to God’s love and fulfilling our purpose.

During this Vocation Awareness Week, we are focused on the importance of prayer on this journey. We invite all Catholics to pray for young individuals seeking clarity in their vocational paths. Consider visiting the Blessed Sacrament, participating in the celebration of the Holy Eucharistic, and praying the Rosary -especially with groups in your parish. These acts of prayer will uplift and encourage Discerners, providing them with the faith and courage to respond to God’s call.Let us reassure our Discerners that they are not alone on this journey. Share with them that we, alongside many others, are lifting them up in prayer during this special week.

Our collective prayers strengthen discernment and unite our community, reminding us that we all play a part in Christ’s mission for His Church.As we celebrate Vocation Awareness Week, letus commit to nurturing a culture where every Catholic can discern their vocation, live it out, and be empowered to answer God’s call. Through prayer, collaboration, and faithful witness, we can cultivate the next generation of disciples who will carry on Christ’s mission in Trinidad and Tobago and the world.Pray to the LORD of the harvest….Vocation Discernment Rooted in Prayer!

Vocations Cup Initiative

In October 2024, the Office of Vocations, through Generation S, launched a campaign to revitalize the Vocations Cup Programme, encouraging local families to pray for priestly vocations. Twenty-five parishes are now part of the programme. This initiative fosters a culture of support for vocations within the “domestic church,” under the principle that “Praying for vocations is everybody’s business.”

The Vocations Cup, symbolizing the sacrifices of Christian life united with Christ’s, serves as a reminder that every vocation, whether to marriage, religious life, or priesthood, requires personal and communal sacrifice. As the Cup moves through parishes, it encourages families to reflect on sacrifice and supports those discerning a call to serve the Church. The Cup, tied to the Eucharist and priesthood, emphasizes that fulfilling one’s vocation and building the Church demands collective love and sacrifice.

Let us Build a Culture of Vocations. Join us as we pray for Vocations to the Priesthood and Religious Life.If your parish wishes to participate please contact Diane at 754-7418.