Discernment Weekends
Learning, Prayer, Fellowship

Several times throughout the school year, men from around the archdiocese, as well as other dioceses, come to the seminary to enjoy a Discernment Weekend. They experience first-hand what life at Sacred Heart is all about.

In a blend of meetings, interviews, prayer, Mass, class sit-ins, seminarian witnesses and faculty lectures, the guests learn about the four facets of priestly formation: human, academic, spiritual and apostolic. But the weekend is by no means regimented and uniform. Plenty of time is reserved for relaxed meditation and prayer, along with social interaction and sports activities (plus the food is great!).

Answering a Call

The focus of Discernment Weekend, held March 20-21, 2003, was "What is God Calling Me to Do With My life–Wherever I Am In It." Seventeen men answered the call offered by Cardinal Maida and Fr. James Bilot, archdiocesan vocations director, to "Try it On," meaning to think seriously whether God may be calling them to the ordained ministry.

A second Discernment Weekend was held on May 9-10. Father Bilot discussed with the guests issues such as the elements of chaste celibacy, foregoing marriage to serve the kingdom of God, and making a commitment to the parish community.

"Helping people to work out their salvation—that's what attracts me to this ministry," said attendee David MacNeil, 41, an entrepreneur from the Diocese of Kalamazoo and an Episcopal convert to Catholicism.

No Cost

If you or someone you know may be interested attending a Discernment Weekend at Sacred Heart, contact the Archdiocese Office for Priestly Vocations.