Happy New Year! God continues to bless us. We will ordain six men to the priesthood this year and two men to the tranistional diaconate.
Though we are losing six men from the seminary for the priesthood, and I am sure we will have one or two men discern out, next fall does not look thin. We are still having 10 men applying to the seminary, and these men are all great candidates! We could still grow from 31 to maybe 32 or even 33 next year. There is always room for more in the family.
I have posted many upcoming spring and summer events. It is going to be another busy time of serving the Lord here in the Vocations Office.
At Mass today, January 4th, I heard Jesus in the Gospel ask his disciples what it is that they are looking for. This is a very interesting question that we are called to answer. Jesus is asking us what are we looking for. He is the God of the living not the dead. Jesus is active in our world today and he asks you, what are you looking for in 2017?
There are many things we are looking for: a better you, job, friends, position in extracircular activites, better habits, etc. But ultimately it boils down to happiness. We are looking for happiness, joy, and peace. Only Jesus can truly give this and make it lasting.
If you are discerning your vocation, Jesus is asking you, “what are you looking for?” After Jesus asked his disciples what they are looking for he says to them come and follow me. As you discerning, “looking for” your vocation in 2017 Jesus says come and follow me and to not be afraid!
If you are thinking about the seminary for next fall I encourage to not be a afraid and get in contact with me soon as preparation for next fall starts now. Our deadline for the application for next fall in late April and the application process usually takes about 3-4 months. Be not afraid!
In Christ,
Fr. Shaun Haggerty
Vocation Director of the Diocese of Sioux Falls
If you are thinking about the priesthood, have questions, or want to visit the seminary please email me: frshaunhaggerty@sfcatholic.org