“Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; be it done to me according to thy will”
(Luke 1:38)
When Bishop Malesic arrived in the Diocese of Greensburg five years ago, he identified the promotion of vocations as one of his top priorities. Throughout the past several years, the Office for Priestly Vocations has worked with clergy and the laity of the diocese in creating a “Culture of Vocations.” This past year, the priests of the diocese participated in a two-day workshop on promoting vocations within the parish community. They were asked to identify a core team within their parish to attend similar training. Over 115 participants, representing 68% of our parishes, participated. These core teams are now working in the parishes to foster vocations to the priesthood, consecrated life, marriage, and single life. This is one example of how we are working together to create a “Culture of Vocations” within our diocese. We must remember that God is calling all people to offer their lives back to Him in a particular way.
Today, I am asking you to help me continue the momentum that Bishop Malesic started to make vocations a priority throughout the diocese. On September 8, the Church remembers the gift of Mary on her nativity. As we celebrate the birthday of Mary, I am asking for two things. First, please pray for the intercession of Mary for those discerning God's call in their lives. I genuinely believe that our prayers to Mary asking for her intercession will assist those struggling to hear God's call. Mary knows how to listen, and she will help others do the same.
The second favor is that you consider supporting the Seminarian and Clergy Formation Collection. These are difficult times as we face the many challenges presented by the coronavirus. I realize some of your circumstances have been radically affected by COVID-19. Prayerfully consider making a gift if your circumstances allow. And, if possible, consider the Lord's call to be generous.
The annual Seminarian and Clergy Formation Collection supports the training of our seminarians and candidates for the permanent diaconate. It provides for the ongoing education of our priests and permanent deacons. This collection also supports our International Priests Program.
Mary is often referred to as Mary, Queen of Clergy. We turn to Mary, asking for her intercession for all those discerning her Son's call in their lives. May the words of Mary also be the words spoken by each of us, “I am the handmaid of the Lord, be it done to me according to thy will.”
In Christ’s Love,
Fr. Tyler J. Bandura
Director, Office of Priestly Vocations