Lend your voice to Christ

By Fr Kenwyn Sylvester

Director of the Office of Vocations

Every vocation begins with a call, but that call is often first heard through someone else’s voice.

As we approach Vocation Awareness Week, the Church is inviting every parishioner to take part in the ‘Called by Name’ initiative, a simple way to help someone recognise that God might be calling them to the priesthood.

I remember when people first asked me that question: “Have you ever thought about becoming a priest?”

At the time, I found it uncomfortable. I was a young man trying to live my faith sincerely, and I could not understand why people assumed I might be called. Yet, those words stayed with me. Over time, they began to echo in my heart in a way I could not ignore. God was using the voices of others to get my attention.

Looking back, I realise those parishioners saw something in me that I could not yet see. Their quiet encouragement planted a seed that took years to grow, watered by prayer, silence, and grace.

That is exactly what Called by Name is about: planting seeds. It’s the Church’s way of reminding us that vocations grow in community, through the gentle voice of someone who dares to say, “I see something in you.”

How you can take part

During Vocation Awareness Week, parishioners are encouraged to:

1. Pray and ask the Lord to show you a young man in your parish who shows signs of faith, compassion, and dedication to the Church.
2. Speak a word of encouragement, perhaps to an altar server, youth leader, or parish volunteer whose faith inspires others.
3. Submit a name to your parish or to the Vocations Office by WhatsApp @ 499-0302 or by scanning the QR code at the end of this article.

Our Vocations Team will reach out to offer support, information, and opportunities for discernment, such as retreats, seminary visits, or one-on-one conversations with priests and vocation directors.

Why your voice matters

Scripture reminds us that God often speaks through others. Eli helped young Samuel recognise the Lord’s voice. Andrew brought Peter to Jesus. Their words changed lives and the Church’s story.

In the same way, your encouragement might help someone see what God sees in them.

It might be your son, a nephew, or a young man in the pew behind you. You may hesitate, afraid of saying the wrong thing. But your simple words could awaken a call that has been quietly waiting to be heard.

A prayer to begin

Every vocation starts with a single word from Jesus: “Come.” He still speaks that word today, but He often does so through us. As you reflect this week, ask:

Lord, who in my parish are You calling?

Whose name are You whispering to my heart?

Give me the courage to lend You my voice.

Your note, your encouragement, or your willingness to write down a name could be the first step in someone’s journey toward the priesthood or consecrated life.

Because sometimes, God’s call sounds exactly like your voice.

If you feel inspired to support the mission of the Office of Vocations as we accompany young men and women in their call to the priesthood and Religious life, consider donating via Republic Bank Acc. # 340 006 832 701. Every contribution helps us continue this vital work of nurturing vocations in our Archdiocese.