Moving forward

Interpreting the signs

There are various signs which suggest the best path for you. On their own, these signs, whether suggesting priesthood, the consecrated life or marriage, are not enough. They are hints that the Lord may be speaking to you and calling you in a particular direction. Like any language, they need interpreting, and you need help to interpret them. If it seems to you that some of these signs are very clear and strong, or if many of them seem to come together and add up and begin to form a pattern, then this can be the clearest sign that the Lord is calling you at least to investigate and humbly take the next step. And if these signs are missing, or they are very weak in your life, then the Lord is probably not calling you, at least not yet.

The overarching sign of a vocation will be an enduring pull in a certain direction, that is accompanied by a sense of peace and joy as you reflect on this attraction. This does not mean the attraction will be without fears and anxieties and struggles (of course you are a bit anxious!). But if the idea of priesthood or consecrated life itself comes with a deep sense of panic or fear or anxiety (this is different from the natural humility and reluctance we feel) it may mean it is not right for you, and you would be much happier somewhere else! Usually, God gives us enough to go on – he does not play games with us.