Archdiocesan Vocations Web Site

The number of priests, religious sisters, and brothers in the archdiocese has been declining. Parish communities are affected in many ways. There is concern within the archdiocese and beyond. As a result, Catholics across the nation are seeking ways to reverse the trend.

The Cincinnati Archdiocesan Vocation Office has initiated a plan to address this need. St. Vivian is one of six Cincinnati area parishes selected to pilot a Parish Vocation Committee. The program is being directed by Fr. Mark Watkins, former St. Vivian Associate Pastor, and Archdiocesan Vocation Office Director.

A modest-sized committee of parishioners has formed and are meeting periodically with Fr. Paul to begin activities. Prayer has been identified as a very important first step in this endeavor - "Ask the Lord of the harvest to send laborers into his vineyard." Communal prayer activities suggested include:

Rosary (once a week) after the 8:15 a.m. Mass dedicated for vocations;

31 Club - commitment to receive the Holy Eucharist once a month for vocations;

Vocation offertory petitions at Mass.

Archbishop Pilarczyk has given his complete approval for this project.

Also, a parish-wide discernment process is being explored and expected to be underway soon. Discernment is a prayerful process that helps identify potential ministers for religious life. Referrals can be made to Fr. Paul and forwarded to the Archdiocesen Vocation office.

The Vocation Committee and Fr. Paul are open to your suggestions. Committee members may be contacted for information, including Jim Allgier, Jodie Bender, Anita Bidleman, Judy Knapp, Dave Nichols, Bob Massa, Milt Partridge, and Don Schaeper.

This effort is assisted by Serra International's Cincinnati Chapter. Cincinnati Serra members on the St. Vivian Vocation Committee are Bob Massa, Milt Partridge, and Don Schaeper.

Milt Partridge