Pray, look for the signs that lead to true vocation
Submitted by P.J. Hayden, Principal, Catherine Spalding Elementary, Owensboro
"Look for the signs." With these words Sr. Pam Mueller, Director of Vocation Ministry, spoke to the students at Catherine Spalding School. Over the course of three days, March 11-13, Sr. Pam spoke to each grade level about the signs that God gives to each person as they seek out their vocational path.
Older students enjoyed a short demonstration of what life can be like when there are no signs to follow. The students were given the simple instruction to "walk around the room." Students started off in all direction, some bumping into others, some blocking the path for others. When the group came back to discuss the demonstration the students readily agreed that it would be much easier to navigate if there were some signs giving them directions.
As Sister Pam began her talk about vocations, she encouraged the children to look for the "signs" from God in the words and actions of those who care about them, such as parents and teachers. She urged them to consider all the talents and gifts that God has given them as they decide their futures. Most importantly, she pointed out that most "careers" were possible in any of the vocational lifestyles. Sister Pam told them, "There is no reason why you can’t be a doctor and have a religious vocation."
Sister Pam explained the different vocational lifestyles to all the children. She emphasized the importance of prayer in the making of all decisions, but especially in the discernment of a vocation.
Primary students were asked to draw pictures of what they thought God was calling them to do. Their pictures decorated the hallways of the primary wing. Students were given pencils and bookmarks that encouraged prayerful consideration of vocations.