Vocation: The calling or destiny we have in this life and hereafter. God has created the human person to love and serve him; the fulfillment of this vocation is eternal happiness (CCC 1, 358,1700). Christ calls the faithful to the perfection of holiness (CCC 825). The vocation of the laity consists in seeking the Kingdom of God by engaging in temporal affiars and directing them according to God's will (CCC 898). Priestly and religious vocations are dedicated to the service of the Church as the universal sacrament of salvation (cf. CCC 873; 931).
Some people know from an early age what they want to do with their lives. Others need time to discern what path God is calling them to.
Discernment is listening to God and making decisions based on what you hear from him. Jesus says through out all four Gospels, "Be not afraid; come follow me!" In order to follow him, we need to listen to his voice. Prayer is the key to all of this discernment. Praying with scripture, the rosary, spending time in adoration, attending Mass, and frequent reconciliation are just a few ideas on how to pray and discern your vocational call.
No matter what vocation God is calling you to, you are not alone. For resources to help with the discernment process or to strengthen an existing vocation visit the resource links located to the right of this page.