Run for Vocations

Here’s a neat idea that seems to have taken hold in a number of dioceses: a run for vocations. The Archdiocese of Indianapolis will be sponsoring runners at a 5k for vocations in May, and I know the Archdiocese of Los Angeles has done so at past city marathons. What a great way to offer prayers for vocations, especially for vocations to the priesthood and the religious life, as well as a way to provide encouragement in a public venue.

Typically those who “run for vocations” wear a t-shirt saying as much. Imagine the effect their presence could have on a young man contemplating the priesthood, out running a race, who is praying for God to carry him all the way. Imagine if, at every turn, he saw fellow runners running for vocations — indeed, in the providence of God, running for his vocation.

Might he not recognize those shirts as an answer to prayer, even as a manifestation of God’s call? Racers who run for vocations thus can literally be the means by which God calls those chosen to His priesthood. How awesome is that?