New deacon’s vocation journey not on usual path

In answer to our prayers, God has blessed us with an increase in candidates for vocations to the priesthood and religious life. Twenty-nine women from around the country recently participated in a fall retreat hosted by the Sisters of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George (the Alton Franciscans) for a weekend of prayer and discernment. Also, this past Aug. 15 three young women entered their novitiate and two made first vows. It is encouraging to see this increased interest in the life of consecrated women religious. Last weekend another transitional deacon was ordained for our diocese, our third this year, which means that these three men are scheduled to be ordained priests next spring.