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During this period of The Apostle's Fast (May 27 to June 28), reflect on the teachings and work of Apostles Saint Peter and Saint Paul, who were instrumental in spreading the gospel to different parts of the world.
As our Lord called his chosen twelve from among his disciples and as the twelve later called seven to the laying on of hands in order that they provide needed services to the Church, so also now are men called from among those who follow in Christ’s path. These men must strive for constant growth in the spiritual life through self-discipline and cooperation with grace. Key to such discipleship is love. After Jesus washed his apostles' feet he said, "by this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another" (John 13:35). Discipleship is always the basic condition for a call to service. A man attempting ordained ministry without a commitment to basic Christian discipleship is misguided.
While the encouragement and support of a man's family (especially his wife, if he is married) is of particular importance in his response to God's call, involvement in the parochial family is of great importance as well. Regular parish involvement is a key factor for it is in this environment that a man can better know if this is where God is calling him to serve. It is good for him to be involved in the routine aspects of church life such as teaching, liturgical praying, reading, chanting, and serving. This will allow his pastor and his fellow parishioners to know him and observe his ability in these areas, which frequently serve as basic indicators of a man's suitability for Byzantine ministerial life.If you perceive a call to ordained ministry in the Byzantine Catholic Church or if you simply have further questions regarding the ordained life, prerequisites, formation, or finances, feel free to contact the Eparchial Vocations Director: Rev. John R.P. Russell at [email protected].
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