Discerning God’s Call

Hello, my name is Sr. Colleen Mattingly, and I am the Vocations Director for the Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. I first experienced a call to religious life during Eucharistic adoration. I found myself saying to God, “How could I possibly give to you all you’ve given to me?” I heard God say in reply, “You could give your life to me.” Gulp! My life? How about something a bit smaller?

But once I heard God speak to me, I couldn’t ignore it. I slowly began to discern a vocation to religious life. I visited various communities, but I did not feel as though I “clicked” with any of them. Everything changed when I met Sr. Susan Marie Krupp, an Apostle of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. It was a hot, sunny day in Florida, and we were chatting outside. She asked if I’d like to hear the Apostle’s charism (the gift the Holy Spirit gives to the founder/foundress to begin a religious congregation). I said yes.

Her response was simple: “To share God’s love with all His people.” That’s it! I felt the Holy Spirit move within me. I almost heard a voice saying, “This is what you’ve always wanted.” And so I began my discernment journey with the Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Now, years later, I can say with certainty that I am living my vocation, the plan God has always had for me.

I know from personal experience that vocational discernment can feel daunting, frustrating and overwhelming. But it is also a glorious adventure led by the Holy Spirit, the Lord the giver of life, who guides us toward discovering the purpose for which we are created. I invite you into the holy mystery of vocational discernment, to ask the big questions—and please God—to discover the plans God has for your life.

As you begin to discern your vocation, I would recommend taking these five steps, known as the five S’s of discernment: