“Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.”
1 Samuel 3:10
Vocations
A vocation is simply God’s call for your life. God calls some people to marriage, some to religious life, some to the priesthood or diaconate, and some to serve in many other ways. God speaks through prayer, through the people around us, and through the hopes and dreams in our hearts.
If you ever feel even a small tug toward becoming a priest, a sister, a brother, or even a permanent deacon someday, it’s worth paying attention. You don’t need to have all the answers. Just start by praying, asking questions, and talking with someone you trust.
As a parish family, we pray for everyone who is trying to understand where God is leading them—and we pray that more young people will be open to serving the Church in a special way.
Our priests and deacon are always happy to talk with anyone who’s curious about what a vocation might look like. Contact Fr. Jim at the Parish Office 631-744-2800 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Holy Orders
From the very beginning of the Church, Jesus wanted his mission of love and service to continue. He called the apostles to share his message with the world, and that same mission is still alive today through the Sacrament of Holy Orders.
At the heart of this mission is the Pope, the successor of St. Peter, who helps guide the Church with unity, compassion, and hope. Supporting him are the Cardinals, trusted advisors who help care for the Church worldwide and assist in choosing the next Pope. Their ministry reminds us that leadership in the Church is always meant to be rooted in prayer, wisdom, and service.
When someone is ordained, the Holy Spirit blesses them with special gifts so they can care for God’s people with generosity and joy:
- Bishops shepherd and teach the Church in their dioceses, working closely with the Pope and Cardinals to guide God’s people.
- Priests celebrate Mass, offer the sacraments, and accompany people through the joys and challenges of life.
- Deacons serve through charity, preaching, and assisting at Mass. Many permanent deacons are married and raising families, bringing the wisdom of their daily lives into their ministry. Their example shows how faith, service, and family life can beautifully support one another.
Together, the Pope, Cardinals, bishops, priests, and deacons help the Church remain a place of welcome—strong in faith, generous in love, and close to the people it serves.
What About Religious Life?
Religious life is another special way people follow Jesus. Sisters, brothers, and religious priests live in communities where they pray, serve, and share life together. They work in schools, hospitals, parishes, shelters, and so many other places where God’s love is needed. Their lives are a sign of hope and joy for the whole Church.
If you feel a stirring in your heart or are wondering whether God might be calling you to serve in one of these vocations, you don’t have to explore that journey alone. We invite you to reach out to Fr. Jim, who would be happy to listen, answer questions, and walk with you as you discern where God may be leading you. Call the Parish Office to arrange a meeting or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
