Holy Orders & vocations
Listen for God’s call to serve his Church.
God calls every baptized person to holiness. Within the Church, some men are called to serve through the sacrament of Holy Orders as deacons, priests, or bishops. Their ministry serves the proclamation of the Gospel, the celebration of the sacraments, and the pastoral care of God’s people.
Begin discerning
If you wonder whether God may be calling you to ordained ministry, you do not have to reach a decision before speaking with someone. A conversation with a priest can help you explore the question honestly and identify a next step.
Discernment involves prayer, participation in the sacramental life, service, and a growing understanding of your gifts and responsibilities. It unfolds with the Church and with guidance from people entrusted with formation. Curiosity about a vocation is an invitation to listen, not a promise that must be settled immediately.
Speak with a priest
Contact the parish office and ask for a conversation about a vocation. Mention whether you are exploring priesthood or the diaconate and how you can best be reached. A priest can help connect you with the appropriate diocesan vocation or formation contact.
The Diocese of Madison provides diocesan information. Entry requirements, application processes, and formation schedules belong to the appropriate diocesan program; the parish can help you find the current guidance.
Other forms of Christian vocation
You may also be discerning religious life, consecrated life, marriage, or another way of serving the Church. These are distinct paths, and a pastoral conversation can help you explore them. Religious profession is not the sacrament of Holy Orders.
Pray for vocations
Families and parishioners can support discernment through prayer, encouragement, and a willingness to speak about God’s call. Please pray for our clergy, seminarians, and everyone preparing for service in the Church. Visit ministries to discover ways to serve while continuing to discern.