Youth Encouraged to Choose Purposeful Vocations Despite Life’s Distractions

As the Catholic Church commemorates Good Shepherd Sunday which doubles as the World Day of Vocations, the Bishop of Fort Portal Catholic Diocese, Rt. Rev. Robert Muhiirwa Akiiki, has called on the faithful to respond to the call of God, with particular attention to the youth. He noted that many young people today face distractions and uncertainty when discerning their vocations, especially in light of challenges and scandals within families and the Church.

The Bishop made these remarks on Sunday May 11, during Holy Mass at St. Augustine Nsambya, while addressing Catholic communicators at the conclusion of a successful Social Communications Week.

Citing Pope Francis’ message on vocations, Bishop Muhiirwa emphasized the importance of prayer for young people, that they may make wise choices between vocations to the priesthood, religious life, or forming strong, faithful families. He described the family as a foundational pillar for nurturing quality vocations, which the Church urgently needs.

He also urged priests to emulate Christ, the Good Shepherd, by serving with humility, compassion, and obedience following the example of Christ who gave His life for His flock, and the religious to responsibly carry on their role in the church, in a way that will inspire the young generation to join them.

Pope calls for collective prayer for vocations

The world’s 267 pontiff, Pope Leo XIV, on the same day expressed his joy in being able to pray together with all the People of God for vocations, especially to the priesthood and consecrated life. He said the Church has “great need for them” as it does all of us who support them on their vocational journey so they can “find acceptance, listening and encouragement in their communities” and “credible models of generous dedication to God and to their brothers and sisters.”

 

Recalling Pope Francis’ message for the World Day of Prayer for Vocations, he encouraged everyone to “welcome and accompany young people” while we ask God to help us all live “in service to one another…capable of helping one another to walk in love and truth.”