An Invitation to Serve

Welcome to our diocesan vocation website!

Vocations are among the greatest gifts that our Lord bestows upon His Church.  I often marvel at what a blessing it is to be a priest and carry out the saving ministry of Jesus among His people.  I am firmly convinced that Jesus is calling many young men in our day to follow Him as His priests.  It is crucial that we prayerfully consider His call and follow Him unreservedly.

Echoing the words of our Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI at the world youth day, I would like to exhort you to “be prepared to put your life on the line in order to enlighten the world with the truth of Christ” – the Lord is calling you too.

It is my hope and prayers that you will find this website helpful as you begin your discernment on how you will follow in the footsteps of Christ.  He calls you to take courage and not be afraid.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverend James V. Johnston, Jr., D.D., J.C.L.

Bishop of Springfield-Cape Girardeau