Promoting Vocations

Ten Things That Promote Vocations by Bishop David Toups:

“Promoting Vocations” was written by Bishop David Toups while as Rector of St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary in Boynton Beach, Florida.

For all Catholics:

Pray for an increase in vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life. Jesus says in Matthew 9:38 “to beg the master of the harvest to send laborers into the vineyard.” If we want more priests, sisters and brothers, we all need to ask.
Teach young people how to pray. Pope Benedict XVI said that unless we teach our youth how to pray, they will never hear God calling them into a deeper relationship with Him and into the discipleship of the Church.
Invite active young adults and teens to consider a vocation to the priesthood or consecrated life. A simple, sincere comment should not be underestimated. An easy way to do this can be remembered by four letters: ICNU. “John, I see in you (ICNU) the qualities that would make a good priest, and I want to encourage you to pray about it.” It is a non-invasive way to encourage openness to a religious vocation.

Bishop David Toups

Ten Things That Promote Vocations by Bishop David Toups (continued)

For All Catholics

4. Make it attractive. Show the priesthood for what it truly is – a call to be a spiritual father to the whole family of faith. Similarly, the consecrated life for a young woman is a call to be united to Christ in a unique way, and to be a spiritual mother to those she encounters in her life and service. The challenge for priests and religious is to be joyful models of their vocations.

5. Preach it, brother! Vocations must be talked about regularly if a “vocation culture” is to take root in parishes and homes. This means, first and foremost, the people need to hear about vocations from priests through homilies, prayers of the faithful, and discussions in the classroom. Vocations kept out of sight are out of mind.

"Every vocation is born of that gaze of love with which the Lord came to meet us, perhaps even at a time when our boat was being battered by the storm. Vocation, more than our choice, is a response to the Lord’s unmerited call." - Pope Francis

Ten Things That Promote Vocations by Bishop David Toups (con’t)

For those considering a vocation:

Practice the faith. We all need to be reminded that the whole point of our lives is to grow in a deep, intimate and loving relationship with God. This is the first step for any young person desiring to discern any call in life.
Enter into the Silence. Silence is key to sanity and wholeness. We can only “hear” the voice of God if we are quiet. Take out the ear buds of your iPhone, iPod, and iTunes and listen to God, the great I AM. Young people should try to spend 15 minutes of quiet prayer each day – this is where you can begin to receive clear direction in your lives.
Be a good disciple. Some bishops say, “We do not have a vocation crisis; we have a discipleship crisis.” Young people can become true followers of Jesus Christ by serving those around them. By discovering your call to discipleship, you also discover your particular call within the Church.
Ask God. Ask God what He wants for your life and know He only wants what is good for you. If, in fact, you are called to the priesthood or consecrated life, it will be the path to great joy and contentment.
In the immortal words of a famous sneaker manufacturer: “Just do it!” If you feel that God is inviting you to “try it out,” apply to the seminary or religious order. Remember, the seminary or convent is a place of discernment. You will not be ordained or asked to profess vows for many years, providing ample opportunity to explore the possibility of a call to priesthood or religious life.

Father Mike Schmitz speaks about Vocation Discernment

Jul 1, 2015 Father Mike Schmitz

“What should I do with my life?” It’s a question on many hearts, maybe even our own. In this video, Father Mike Schmitz gives some direction that can lead to an answer for ourselves or someone we know. He shares how a vocation is more than just figuring out whether we’re called to married life or religious life, and it’s about more than just finding out what we like to do. As he breaks down three different types of vocation we all have, he draws a practical path we can follow to pursue holiness.

How Do I Know If I'm Called?

Discernment and Prayer

Discerning the priesthood is a spiritual journey, not a checklist. If you feel even a small tug toward this life, take it seriously. God speaks through desire, prayer, mentors, and reflection. Here’s how you can begin discerning with clarity and peace.

Real Stories. Personal Callings.

Because God calls ordinary people to extraordinary paths.

Every vocation journey is different — but each begins with the same question: Is God calling me?
Here are a few of the inspiring stories of men and women who took the next step in faith and found their path to purpose, peace, and service.

Father Matthew Sawyer

From the Front Row of the Altar to the Priesthood

Father Matthew Sawyer’s story traces a winding path from altar server to priest, showing how God’s call endures through every season.

Caroline Dupuis (Pastoral Ministry Certificate)

“God doesn’t ask us for the map, only for our yes.”

Despite uncertainty about where this would lead, Caroline Dupuis knew she needed to begin. Now she supports many others on the path.

Laura Godt (M.T.S. Degree)

An unlikely friendship reopened the door to faith for Laura.

Laura reflects on her journey from doubting, frustration and to faith. Read more about how her path lead her to St. Peter’s Seminary where she completed her MTS Degree.

“Put out into deep water, and let down your nets for a catch.” - Luke 5: 4

Fr. Matthew Sawyer

Fr. Matthew Sawyer's Formation Story

Father Matthew Sawyer: From the Front Row of the Altar to the Priesthood

Father Matthew Sawyer’s story traces a winding path from altar server to priest, showing how God’s call endures through every season.

How one young boy’s love for the Mass became a lifelong call to serve.

A Childhood Enchanted by the Mystery of the Mass

My name is Father Matthew Sawyer. I was born in Stratford, Ontario, and grew up in Mitchell with my parents and sister. From the very beginning, my parents knew how important the Catholic faith was, and they made sure it was part of our daily life. Prayer, stories about the saints, and Sunday Mass were central to my childhood.
Unlike some children, going to Mass never felt like a chore-I loved it. The vestments, the music, the liturgy-it all drew me in. I begged to become an altar server as soon as I could, and after my First Communion, I finally got my chance. Being at the altar gave me a front-row seat to the mystery of the Mass and planted the first seeds of a vocation.

Continue to Read Fr. Sawyer's Story

When the Call Became Impossible to Ignore

I still remember being in Grade 3 and telling my teacher that I wanted to be a priest. Of course, firefighter and police officer were also on the list-but the priesthood always held a special place in my heart. As I grew, my interests widened-drama, hospitality, and community service-but my love for the Mass never faded. Throughout High School, I was introduced to faith-based events by a youth minister in a neighbouring parish and attended events like COR (Christ in Others Retreat), Lift Jesus Higher Rallies, and the Steubenville Youth Conference. All these events helped me in digging into my faith, realizing that there was more to Mass and our Faith than just serving the altar.
Interestingly, it was at a youth group in an evangelical church, where my best friend invited me, that the call to priesthood became undeniable. One evening we talked about servant leadership, and it hit me: this is what priesthood is about. The youth minister prayed with me, and from then on, I could no longer ignore the call. I realized priesthood was the perfect way to unite my love for Christ with my desire to serve people.

The Detours, Struggles, and Lessons Along the Way

In 2011, I entered St. Peter’s Seminary after attending a Come and See weekend. From the very start, the community felt like “home.” Still, my journey was not without challenges. The academics were tough, and living in community was a big adjustment. By my second year, I was struggling so much and in different ways that I stepped back from formation and focused on finishing my Philosophy degree at King’s University College.
Yet the call never left me. In 2018, I returned to formation at St. Peter’s to begin earning my Theology degree. I carried some self-doubt with me, but this time I was more mature and better prepared. I also learned humility-especially in asking for support. With the help of a spiritual director and the seminary’s human formation counsellor, I discovered the importance of mental health, self-care, and balance. Long walks, painting, exercise, prayer, and friendship became lifelines. Through these struggles, my prayer life deepened, especially through Eucharistic adoration. Prayer was no longer something I simply did-it became who I was.

From Seminary Halls to Parish Life

On April 27, 2024, I was ordained a priest for the Diocese of London. I now serve at the Lucan Northwest London Family of Parishes. Transitioning from seminary to parish life has been exciting, humbling, and full of new learning. One of my first experiences as a priest was walking with families through end-of-life situations-moments that called on compassion, self-knowledge, and presence.
I love the rhythm of parish life: visiting schools, celebrating Mass, hearing confessions, and being with parishioners young and old. They give me energy, and I see Christ working in their lives every day. To stand at the altar now, on the other side, and witness people not only coming to Mass but coming to Christ-it makes every challenge and struggle on the journey worthwhile.

God’s Call: A Voice That Never Fades

If I’ve learned anything, it’s that God’s call never really lets go. The road to priesthood isn’t always straight or easy, but every step draws you closer to the One who calls. If you feel even the smallest stirring of God’s call in your heart, don’t be afraid to explore it-you may find, as I did, that He has been preparing you for something greater than you could ever imagine.

Caroline Dupuis

Vocation Story - Certificate in Pastoral Ministry

Caroline Dupuis’s Story

“God doesn’t ask us for the map, only for our yes.”

Despite doubts and concerns, Caroline enrolled in the Certificate in Pastoral Ministry – and was very happy she did.

Continue to Read Caroline's Story

When I enrolled in the Certificate in Pastoral Ministry at St. Peter’s Seminary, I wasn’t sure where it would lead. I only knew I felt God nudging me to begin. I thought the program would simply prepare me for a role in pastoral ministry. What I discovered was so much more, and it changed the course of my life.

At St. Peter’s, I found not only excellent teaching and formation, but also a community who supported me, prayed with me, and inspired me. The courses deepened my understanding of faith and ministry, and the setting itself, immersed in prayer and faith, gave me the courage to say yes to God in new ways. The friendships I formed and the wisdom of faculty and mentors continue to sustain me. That foundation opened doors I never expected.

After graduation, God led me to study Spiritual Direction at Loyola House in Guelph, where I learned how to accompany people in discovering God’s presence in their lives. From there, new ministries blossomed. I completed a three-year program in Senior Adult Ministry through the Johnson Institute, which helped me respond to the deep hunger among seniors who often feel overlooked. Out of this work grew Wings of Grace, a book now under review with Novalis, as well as weekly podcast reflections to help others begin their day with prayer and hope.

And the journey continues. This October, I will begin chaplaincy formation at Newman University, another step, another yes. I don’t yet know where it may lead, but I trust God will open the right doors in His time.

Through it all, I return again and again to Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to give you a future and a hope.” St. Peter’s Seminary was where I first dared to trust that promise, and where God built the foundation for everything that followed.

If you are wondering whether this program is for you, I encourage you: don’t wait until you know the ending. Say yes to the first step. In the Certificate in Pastoral Ministry, you will grow in faith, meet companions for the journey, and receive a formation that will serve you wherever God leads. The journey doesn’t end with graduation, it only begins.

Bio

Caroline Dupuis completed the Certificate in Pastoral Ministry at St. Peter’s Seminary and later trained as a Spiritual Director at Loyola House, Ignatius Jesuit Centre, in Guelph, Ontario. She also completed a three-year program in Senior Adult Ministry through the Johnson Institute. Her ministry includes accompanying seniors, writing Wings of Grace (now under review with Novalis), and sharing weekly podcast reflections. She will begin chaplaincy formation at Newman University in October 2025.

Laura Godts

Vocation Story - M.T.S. Degree

Laura Godt’s Story

“It was through an unlikely friendship I made with Sister Mary Frances and her Supper Club at Brescia that the door to my faith was reopened in a way I would have never expected.”

Laura shares more about her journey to deepening her knowledge and faith.

Continue to Read Laura's Story

Foundations and Early Questions

I am a cradle Catholic who grew up always finding the time to go to Church no matter when Mass was or where we were. Even after attending Catholic school from Kindergarten through Undergrad, I often questioned, and at times, felt angry about aspects of the faith that didn’t make sense to me. As a young adult, the Church often felt more like a wall than a welcoming door. It was through an unlikely friendship I made with Sister Mary Frances and her Supper Club at Brescia that the door to my faith was reopened in a way I would have never expected.

Encounters that Opened Doors

When Undergrad was coming to an end, I was unsure of what I wanted to do next in my life. Despite not always living on Brescia’s campus, I continued to meet up with Sister Mary Frances, and it was her who encouraged me to look into the M.Div program. We spent many hours in conversation about faith, which deeply interested me. Sister Mary Frances greatly impacted my faith journey and she helped me to better understand what it meant to be a religious person but also an active lay person.

After thinking and praying on what she had said, I entered St. Peter’s Seminary in the M.Div program. That year opened up a flood of questions for me and it sparked a deeper desire to learn, even though I had grown up Catholic. During the first year, we were placed in field-education in a school. It was there that I worked with the Chaplain at a local school, and I witnessed faith being shared but I also began to recognize what the next step was for me in my life.

Teaching Ministry and Growth

I left the Seminary for two years to complete my teaching degree and once finished, I came back with a desire to learn even more. I switched to the M.T.S program, where I felt a new spark when reflecting on the role of young people in the Church and the wider community. I slowly worked through completing my degree in the evening. This wasn’t always easy but it was incredibly fruitful and allowed for great personal growth. Now I have been teaching for six years. I truly love to teach my students about faith in a way that will spark their interest, make them ask questions and want to learn more. Through this, my students were exposed to and made connections with some people who were in the process of becoming a priest.

Over the past few years, there have been many people who have encouraged me to become more involved in the Church community, they saw a spark but I just needed a nudge to get it going. A parish priest of mine invited me to help with Sacramental Prep and then RCIA and Alpha. Through the encouragement of the Pastoral Minister who recognized my teaching background, I began teaching both children and adults. Their impact and the conversations have encouraged me to ask why and not be afraid to offer my gifts.

Living a Lifelong Vocation

The programs at the Seminary were incredibly flexible and understanding of my work schedule. This flexibility and support of the Seminary community helped me complete the program. The professors and staff always found a way to help and encourage me to meet the requirements on time, especially when I was looking to take a class each term. I formed a number of lasting and meaningful relationships while I was at St. Peter’s Seminary. God always had a plan for me and it was never one or the other, teaching or learning.

Towards the end of my time at St. Peter’s, I was often asked ‘So now what?’ For me, there is no end to learning, growing and discovering new opportunities. I see this in parish ministries, in gatherings of young people, and in my role as a teacher. I want my students to see that Christ can be a part of everyday life, not just in Church. To witness Christ is to see that God’s love can be found everywhere. Taking the first step to learn more about our faith is often the hardest part but it opens us to the deeper ‘why’ behind what we believe and do as Roman Catholic Christians.

Graduate Experience

Recent Graduate of St. Peter’s Seminary, Father Marc Gaudet, speaks about the benefits of F.i.R.M.