National Vocation Awareness Week January 10 - 16

H/T to Catholic Fire  (quoted from CF site)

Baptized in the Spirit

This week, January 10 - 16, the Catholic Church in the United States is celebrating National Vocation Awareness Week, which begins today with the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord.

This year's theme "Baptized in the Spirit" reminds us to go forth in courage to proclaim all the Good News of Jesus Christ. Follow Jesus without fear and do not be afraid to "walk in the Light."

God calls us all to live our faith and  to seek out our vocation to become a deacon, priest, religious sister, married or single person.

Perhaps God is calling you to the priesthood or consecrated life.  Will you have the courage to follow your heart? We are all called to love and serve Him and one another. As we continue to walk in the light of Christ and to serve the Lord with our whole heart, mind, body, and soul, may we be "Baptized in the Spirit" of love and forgiveness.

During this week, perhaps we could take time to reflect on vocations in the following ways:

• Take time to pray for vocations to the priesthood and the consecrated life.
• Pray for those with vocations to the married life -- that God will be at the center of marriages.
• Pray with those who have vocations to the single life.
• Reflect on our own vocation and strengthen our personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Renew our baptismal commitment as we consider our call to serve God in our particular vocation.
  
• Educate our children about the importance of silent prayer and taking the time to listen to God's voice in their hearts.
  

The observance of National Vocation Awareness Week (NVAW) began in 1976 when the National Conference of Catholic Bishops designated the 28th Sunday of the year as the beginning of NVAW. In 1997 this celebration was moved to coincide with the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord.