Vocation FAQ

"Can I be happy in my life if I don't follow the vocation Jesus invites me to embrace?"

"If someone does not follow the vocation for which Christ made them, they can attain a certain degree of happiness in this world and still attain salvation. However, they will not be as happy or blessed as they might have been had they followed their proper vocation.

"This is why it is so important that everyone discern their particular vocation prayerfully and responsibly.

"Of course, there are trials and tribulations in every vocation. To become a priest or consecrated religious does not take away all suffering. But there is great joy in laying down one's life for Christ.

"Your vocation is Christ's gift to you. How you respond is your gift to Him."

from the Vocations Frequently Asked Questions page
of the Diocese of Arlington