Promoting Christian Vocations
Marriage, Priesthood and Religious Life
by Pat Cunningham
March 29, 2008
Every Christian man has a vocation, a particular and unique expression of the gifts given in Baptism. As Christ was anointed prophet, priest and king, so we are caught up in the mystery of Christ to be prophets (speaking God's word), priests (praying on behalf of all people) and leaders in the Church of Jesus Christ.
Most of our graduates go on to be husbands and fathers of families. In our religion, social studies, science and health classes, and in our microeconomics and JROTC, we work to impart skills that will help them in this noble calling. Of course, in all vocations promotion, we work as an adjunct to the family.
Over the years, many of our former students and graduates have been called to the holy priesthood. Most Rev. John Yanta, DD, was one who served as bishop of Amarillo until 2008. We are happy to have priest-graduates serving in many dioceses of Texas and the United States. We encourage our young men to see themselves as possible ministers of reconciliation and sacrifice.
Since 1852, Central Catholic has been a seedbed for religious vocations to several Catholic orders, particularly the Marianists. We encourage those who feel a calling to live in community, whether active or contemplative, to develop a specially intense life of prayer and listening to the Holy Spirit. We particularly encourage discernment of Marianist vocations during our Marianist Heritage Month each January.
