DISCERNING a VOCATION

Lately, we have been examining our own lives as Secular Franciscans. Perhaps, as a result of self-examination, others may have come to us or to our fraternities discerning a vocation to the Order. How do we help them? What do we look for? There are some qualities that help us discern God’s invitation to a Secular Franciscan vocation. Primary among them:

 Trust:

The book of Proverbs tells us to trust in the Lord with all our hearts and not to lean on our understanding. If we do this, God will direct the path. To trust we must believe that God is truly present, and that God desires to speak to us. Our trust is in a loving and merciful God who promises that all will work out for good for those who seek and love him. (See Romans 8:28)

 Listening:

God can speak to us through anything—pain and pleasure, emotions, and senses. We must listen with open hearts and open minds, especially to what we do not wish to hear. Listening requires periods of silence. Elijah heard God in a still, small voice—not a rushing wind. (1 Kings 19:11-13)

 Prayer and Waiting:

Samuel prayed, “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening” (1 Sam. 3:10). Samuel waited for an answer. Prayer for discernment involves waiting and listening with total attention on God. God wants us to know his will, and if we truly believe this, our prayer is centered on waiting for direction from the Lord.

 Knowledge of Sacred Scripture:

Scripture contains a multitude of relationships between God and his people. The more familiar we are with these relationships, the more the Word of God speaks to us and leads us in the right direction.

 Humility:

Humility is based on self-knowledge. A humble person is neither too self-confident nor too modest. Humility is one of the foundation stones for discernment because a humble heart accepts the limits of human knowledge and is willing to depend on God and others for help.

 Discipline, Perseverance, Patience, Perspective:

These four attributes are essential in discerning a vocation. Impulses are controlled by discipline. Uncertainty is mastered by perseverance. Patience replaces irritation. And perspective reminds us that God is in charge and our part is to respond.

 Here is a convenient list to use as a jumping off point in the discernment process:

 POSITIVE SIGNS of a Vocation to the Secular Franciscan Order:

The prospective member:

· Is aware of the needs of others

· Shows honorable motives for wishing to enter the Order

· Manifests attributes of peace and serenity, despite possible personal problems or turmoil

· Radiates joy from deep within

· Is open and authentic in relationships in fraternity

· Displays persistence and patience despite obstacles and impediments

· Is accepted by the fraternity and believes the fraternity is where they belong

· Is filled with gratitude and love that does not fade with time

· Undergoes conversion

 NEGATIVE SIGNS or CAUTIONS:

The prospective member:

· Is overextended and exhausted

· Experiences inner turmoil, disturbances, sadness, or depression

· Has pressing previous commitments that demand serious consideration, especially to children and spouse

· Is experiencing anxiety or obsessions and is not in touch with God’s presence

· Exhibits attitudes of absolute certainty, arrogance, superiority, vanity, anxiety, irritability, resentment, condemnation, or condescension

 Taken from the FUN Manual “What is Formation” by Anne Mulqueen, OFS

 Questions to discuss or to answer in your journal:

1.     Do you recall your discernment process before you entered the Order? How can your experience help you in guiding someone else?

2.    Which of the items above are most helpful in helping someone discern? Which are least helpful? (Give reasons)