Vocations Office: Our Work
The Challenge
For the past few years, there have been challenges in promoting the culture of vocations within the Archdiocese of Perth. In part, this may be because society has become increasingly secular.
The strength and pervasiveness of secular culture together with the Church’s struggle to publicly live up to its ideals and values have contributed to the decline in the awareness of vocation.
While conscious of these formidable factors, the Vocations Committee, motivated by faith and hope in Christ puts forward the following initiatives for promoting a culture of vocation in the Archdiocese of Perth.
Our Initiatives and Priorities
Vocations at the Parochial Level
At the heart of the Archdiocese of Perth is the complex of parishes spread across the city and extending into country areas. Our plan for promoting a culture of vocation will therefore begin with a focus on the parishes. Our aim will be to engage with all parishioners but especially with the youth who are seeking to discern their future way of life. We will do this via:
- Good Shepherd Sunday Vocation Awareness
- Parish outreach programs and activities
- Collaboration with our Seminaries
- Parish Vocations retreats and conferences
Vocations in Catholic Schools and Universities
Promoting a culture of vocation in Catholic schools requires its own individual approach. We will focus on year 10, 11 and 12 students as they are already considering their careers and lifestyle. By working through the appropriate channels (including a vocation promoter in the school), we aim to integrate the idea of God’s call and His invitation to listen and discern their vocation. Similarly at the tertiary level, the Vocations Committee will liaise with chaplains to identify the most effective strategies to promote vocations.
Vocations via Online Platform
To take advantage of the strong influence of social media on young people, the Vocations Committee will ensure that the website and social media accounts are comprehensive and up-to-date.
Sustaining those discerning Vocations
The priority for the Vocation Office will be to follow up on individuals who have shown interest in the priesthood or ordained ministry. However, it will also assist those interested in religious life, marriage and committed singlehood by directing them to the appropriate personnel and resources.