As part of the Steubenville weekend, everyone is encouraged to lay down their life for Christ. Some are hearing a deeper call from Jesus. For some, this means being called to living a full life within the Church by being baptized. For others, they are hearing a deeper call from Jesus to possibly lay it all down by becoming a priest or a consecrated religious.
A Call to Baptism
As Fr. Martin invited forward participants who desired to be baptized, the arena swelled with enormous applause. Supported by over 4,000 people, the Archbishop blessed them. Fr. Martin promised, on behalf of everyone, to sacrifice for them during the season of Lent. In his words, “There is always room for one more in the Catholic Church.”
A Call to Priesthood
Many young men heard the words of Christ, “Come follow me.” These young men were invited to come forward to the front of the altar to receive a blessing. This year, they came down to the chorus of the song “Lay it Down.” As they stood up from their seats and made their way down to the altar, their groups encouraged them with hugs and pats on the back.
For those young men discerning the priesthood, there is a Flocknote set up to help learn more about discernment. Simply text “VOCATIONS” to 84576. They can also the Vocations Section of SteubySTL or the Archdiocese of St. Louis’ Vocations Office webpage.
A Call to Religious Life
Likewise, many young women also experienced the call of Christ to follow Him in a more intimate way as religious sisters. These young women were invited to come to the altar and religious sisters present walked to the front with them. Some of these religious sisters had made the walk years ago themselves, having experienced God’s call at a Steubenville conference as teens. They prayed with the young women seeking Christ’s will.
For those young women interested in learning more about religious life, there is a Flocknote set up to help learn more about discernment. Simply text “VOCATIONS” to 84576. They can also visit the Vocations Section of SteubySTL or the CMSWR webpage to learn more about religious life and different communities of religious sisters.
A Call to Support Our Brothers and Sisters
Regardless of whether you have a call to be baptized or a call the priesthood or religious life, it is everyone’s job to join in prayer and support of these young men and women. Remember to lift them up in prayer and make sacrifices for them as they continue to discern God’s will in their lives. Together, let’s build up the body of Christ!
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