Is God is calling you? Exploring the priesthood begins here.
Whether you’re just curious or you’re ready to take a next step, getting in touch is a low-pressure, judgment-free first move. Like a first coffee with a friend, this is just a chance to talk, ask questions and see where God might be leading you — no commitments, no pressure. The Diocese of Charleston is here to help you take the next steps. Follow this path as you prayerfully explore where the Lord may be leading you.
Step 1 – Begin Close to Home
Talk with Your Pastor
- Your pastor knows you and your faith journey. Share your thoughts with him and seek his honest guidance.
Meet with a Spiritual Director
- If you already work with a spiritual director, bring your vocational questions into those conversations. If you do not, your pastor can help connect you with someone who can offer ongoing spiritual guidance throughout your discernment.
Step 2 – Explore and Learn
- Visit the Vocations website
- Discover more information about priesthood and religious life
- Contact the Vocations Director
- Introduce yourself, share your story, and express your interest. The Vocations Director will speak with you a few times to better understand your discernment.
Step 3 – Connect with the Vocations Director
- Attend Discernment Events
- Join “Come and See” weekends, vocation retreats, or local gatherings to experience the community and prayer with others discerning the call
- Connect with other resources, events, and people who can assist you in the deeper stages of your journey
Step 4 – Deepen Your Prayer Life
- Spend Time in Eucharistic Adoration
- Sit with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament and invite Him to speak to your heart.
- Pray Daily
- Include Scripture, the Rosary, and moments of quiet listening for God’s voice.
- Live the Sacraments
- Attend Mass frequently and receive Reconciliation regularly.
Step 6 – Taking the Next Step
- Continue with Your Spiritual Director and Pastor. They will help you grow in virtue, prayer, and understanding of your call.
- If, after initial conversations and discernment, the Vocations Director believes you may be called, he may invite you to begin the formal application process.
- Please note: An invitation to apply is not automatic and will only be extended if the Vocations Director determines you are ready for this step.
FAQ
Learn more about what it’s like to be a priest.
Absolutely. We can help connect you with men who have walked this road before.
That’s perfectly okay. Discernment is about discovering your call, not forcing a decision.
No, discernment takes time. The first steps are about conversation and prayer.
No, this is just an exploration. You can be unsure and still reach out.
You’ll have a relaxed conversation with the vocations director — no pressure, no commitments.
