Introduction to a course on Vocations

VOCATION

This unit explores how young people may develop their vocations as intended originally by God. Some common concerns are

• Will I get a job?
• What can I do if I find myself unemployed?
• Should I try to get a job?
• Is what I am doing the best thing for me?
• Might I get married?
• Will I remain single?
• Do I want to become a religious?
• How best can I provide for my family?
• Is what I am doing worth while?
• Am I being sufficiently challenged by my work?
• What should I be studying for?

Firstly, people should be valued for who they are, not what they can do so it is important firstly, to realise that the word vocation is more than just getting a job and that fulfilment can still be found without a job. In other words, you do yourself no favour if you are anxious about your future.

What is the difference between VOCATION AND JOB?

JOB - Something you do to earn a living and which you can also enjoy

VOCATION - A path you follow in life, what you are called to do. (THIS MAY INCLUDE FINDING EMPLOYMENT). It is discovered by working for the good of members of family, society and and creation and allows you to choose particular lifestyles. In following your vocation you are fulfilled and you know that your life is making a difference and working towards the betterment of society

Vocare - to call, to follow a particular path

Vocation

\

Job (earning money)

/

Work (for family, society and creation)

As we recognise what is good and that it is fulfilling to make a difference, we strive to discover our vocations. If we see getting a job as everything and we can’t work then the following results.

DEVELOPING VOCATION : WORKING FOR THE GOOD OF FAMILIES, SOCIETY AND CREATION

Not everyone is called to contribute to all three.

Brainstorm ways in which people contribute to the good of others in

• families
• society
• creation

Let’s now look at particular occupations that enable people to do this

DEVELOPING OUR VOCATION INCLUDES DISCOVERING ONE OF THE FOLLOWING THREE LIFESTYLES

• SINGLE LIFE
• MARRIAGE/PARENTHOOD
• PRIESTLY/RELIGIOUS LIFE

Each of these needs particular skills and helps people to demonstrate different talents

• List 5 skills or talents for each of the above lifestyles/ callings

What do you think is meant by "a Christian vocation? "

THE CHRISTIAN VOCATION

• Instituted by Jesus
• Call us to particular Christian lifestyles
• Christians accept salvation through the Sacraments of Service - Marriage, Holy orders, Baptism