Session Five - Signs of a Possible Call to Religious Life

During the discernment process, we are looking for an indication or a sign, to know if God is calling us to a religious life. Below is a checklist of some common signs. Do any of these signs ring true for you?

• I seek a deeper relationship with God
• I think about God a great deal, and want to be a follower of Jesus
• I like to pray and take time to pray daily
• I like to read Scripture
• I am active in my parish
• I enjoy serving others and I am generous with my time and talents
• I seek out people to talk about God on a deeper level
• The idea of being called to religious life will not go away
• Other people in my life have mentioned that I may have a call to religious life
• I am in good physical, psychological and emotional health
• I am a mature person
• I feel as if I am called to something more

As you read through the list, how many signs can you check? Take time to reflect and pray about this list and where it may lead you.  

Choose a scripture passage below for further reflection.

• Mark 10:17-22
• Kings 19: 11-13
• Luke 5:1-11 
• John 20:1-18
• Luke 10:38-42
• Luke 18:18-30

These reflection questions may offer additional insights:

1. How do you understand vocation? When did you first hear God calling you to religious life?
2. Where do you see yourself five years from now?
3. How do you hear God calling you? Will you respond?
4. What gifts do you bring to the church?
5. Who are models of holiness in your life? What makes them holy?
6. Do you feel called to be married? Single? Do you feel called to religious life?
7. Who has encouraged you to consider religious life?
8. Is being involved in a Catholic life-giving faith community important to you?
9. What questions do you have about marriage preparation, or religious formation?  

Other readings:

STEPS Newsletter June 2008: Signs God is calling
STEPS Newsletter November 2014 Clues to where you fit in
Letter from an Inquirer

What’s Next?

If you are feeling called to religious life, the next step is to think about a specific community and location. Below are links to help you consider different choices. Once you have discovered a few communities you may be attracted to, contact the Vocation Director to learn more. We’d love to hear from you!

How to Become a Benedictine Sister
Midwest Vocation Match
Vision Vocation Match