Raising Up the Next Generation of Saints
This weekend, as we celebrate the Solemnity of All Saints, we are reminded of a beautiful truth about our Catholic faith: every one of us is called to become a saint. The saints were ordinary men and women who responded to God's extraordinary invitation. Their lives remind us that holiness begins when we recognize God's call and have the courage to respond.
But sometimes, we need someone else to help us hear that call.
Last year, our parish participated in the Disciple Maker Index (DMI) survey, which offered valuable insights into our spiritual life. One finding continues to stand out to me: only 6% of our parishioners reported having invited someone to consider the priesthood, and only 11% had invited someone to consider religious life.
These numbers reveal an important opportunity for our parish family.
We often speak about the need for more priests, deacons, religious sisters and brothers, and committed lay leaders. But how often do we personally encourage a young person to consider whether God might be calling them to serve His Church?
The reality is that many young people may never seriously consider such a vocation unless someone first plants the seed. Sometimes, all it takes is a simple invitation: "Have you ever thought about becoming a priest?" or "I could see you serving the Church in a special way."
God is still calling. The question is whether we are helping young people hear His voice.
Who will be the priests, deacons, religious sisters, catechists, and parish leaders serving our children and grandchildren twenty years from now?
The answer depends, in part, on what we are willing to do today.
This is central to our Vision 2031 commitment to becoming A Parish on Mission. A missionary parish does more than sustain its present ministries. It raises up new disciples, nurtures their gifts, and prepares them to carry the faith forward.
And this responsibility belongs to everyone. Parents, grandparents, teachers, coaches, and fellow parishioners often have the greatest influence because they personally know the young people God may be calling.
So, I offer every parishioner one simple challenge this week: Think of one young person whose faith, generosity, or character you admire, and personally encourage that individual to consider how God might be calling them to serve His Church.
You do not need to have all the answers. You simply need to plant the seed and allow God to do the rest.
The future of our parish and our local Church depends upon the faithfulness of the next generation and our willingness to encourage them today.
The saints of tomorrow are sitting in our pews today. Let us make sure they hear God's invitation through us.
Your Servant in Christ,
Father Jason C. Hage, Pastor
Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for us!
Our Lady of the Rosary, pray for us!
Mary, Mother of Our Savior, pray for us!