PUBLISHER’S NOTE
AYOUNG MAN I KNOW recently started to experience double vision. His first thought
was, “Oh well, it will work itself out.” But in very
short order he realized that without clear vision,
he simply could not function. A doctor’s visit led
to immediate admittance to the hospital. After
multiple scans and second opinions, brain surgery
followed to remove a benign tumor that, if unde-
tected much longer, would have led to stroke and
death. Poor vision actually saved him.
Similarly in our spiritual lives, lack of clear focus is often the
impetus for saving action. As we struggle to find our way forward and
understand our place in the world, we soon realize that we need help.
We turn to prayer, a trusted friend, a counselor, a spiritual director, a
reliable guide such as VISION, or a vocation director—and often all of
the above. Eventually the haze lifts and we can clearly see the path that
God has laid out for us.
We encourage you to take time to adjust your view and focus your
calling. Give it the attention it deserves. Do the scans (i.e., spiritual inventory), get the second opinion (i.e., seek wise counsel), and consider
all your options. And above all don’t forget to factor in the consequences of inaction.
Look for inspiration in the pages of VISION 2020. Read of the sister
who unexpectedly falls in love right before it’s time to take vows (p. 30),
or of the brother who found his vocation on the top of a mountain as
a man lay dying in his arms (p. 110). Murder (p. 86), mayhem (p. 24),
and pizza parties (p. 120) also factor into the diverse and unique mix
that leads men and women to see their vocation clearly.
We are confident that with some adjustments along the way and
good lighting, you, too, will find your calling. And one thing is guaranteed, there will never be a moment on your journey when you are not
loved. That is God’s promise that will forever remain clear.
—Patrice J. Tuohy, VISION Publisher
Let’s clear things up
Check out these award-winning online resources from VISION
VOCATION MATCH A discernment tool to help you narrow your search for the
right vocation.
QUESTIONS CATHOLICS ASK A regular feature shedding light on the traditions
and practices of our rich Catholic heritage.
E-VOCATION NEWSLETTER Monthly insights on discernment matters and help
on your vocation journey. Sign up at VocationNetwork.org/newsletter.
VISION EVEN TS CALENDAR
Postings of service, education, and discernment opportunities in your area.
TAKE FIVE FOR FAITH
Daily faith formation for busy Catholics.
SPIRITUALITY QUIZ
Test your spirituality type.
2020
VISION
focus
your
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Spanish section inside!
2020 Catholic Religious
Vocation Discernment Guide
VocationNetwork.org | VocationMatch.com
A resource of the National Religious Vocation Conference
VOCATION GUIDE
