While most of the baptized faithful will walk along the path of Holy Matrimony during this life, there are some whom Christ calls to follow him in special ways.
The sacrament of Holy Orders establishes the Christian men who receive as deacons, priests, or bishops to serve to those in need and to teach, govern, and sanctify the children of God. It is especially important for us to pray for vocations to the priesthood so that every parish will have ordained ministers to proclaim the word of God in the liturgy and to celebrate the sacraments.
Religious life is not a distinct sacrament, but is rather a radical way of living out Baptism by following Christ in chaste celibacy, poverty, and obedience. By their way of life they live as a prophetic witness of the Kingdom of God when it would be brought to completion.
Adjacent to consecrated religious are of consecrated virgins living in the world. These are women who embrace chaste celibacy and are consecrated in that state by the bishop. They do not live in religious communities, but are of service to the local Church and are employed in the world.
If you think God is calling you along one of these paths, the parish priest would be happy to speak with you about this. You are also free to contact the Vocation Director of the Diocese of Hamilton (see bulletin) as well as the vocation directors of any religious communities with whom you would like to enquire.