Some parents are taken aback by the news of their son’s discernment to serve the Church, especially if they do not consider themselves a very religious family.  Some parents are puzzled about the origin of their son’s vocational call.

While a child’s faith, worship, and vocational plans are often times influenced by family practices and expectations, a vocation to serve the Church is a call from God, the author of all life.  This call is always unique and intensely personal.  Although your son desires to discern his call with great attention and fidelity, you are not obliged to alter your current religious practices unless you wish to do so.  Still, your son will certainly benefit greatly from your support and prayers during his discernment.