Vocations
What is a Vocation? Calling from God, in this case, a specific Christian lifestyle. Single Married Religious/Ordained
#1) Single Life Everyone starts life here, but when it becomes a permanent lifestyle, it might become a VOCATION.
Opportunities of Single Life Freedom to make decisions. Solitude for creative pursuits, resting, learning, praying Wider Friendships possibility for lots of friends Professional Commitment and flexibility with job/careers A less expensive lifestyle costs less in some areas of life
Problems of Single Life Egocentrism and not always as much opportunity for give-and-take relationships Loneliness part of the human condition and can be experienced in any walk of life No one special person possibly no companion in old age Job Traps people expect you to be married to work A more expensive lifestyle aren’t splitting common costs between two incomes
Vs. Freedom Solitude Wider Friendships Professional commitment Less Expensive Egocentrism Loneliness No special person Job traps More Expensive
Whether temporary or permanent…. …. Use singleness as an opportunity to learn more about yourself, establish a career, develop wider friendships, and explore life…. Don’t be afraid of yourself! It’s a fruitful time!
#2) Married Life Committed to through a sacrament. You marry yourselves, the Church is witness. Share love and life—AGAPE?! Make solemn vows.
Why Marry? Share love and life Create new life—established to raise children Strengthen Identities Bring out the Best Support Journey in Faith
Marriage is Forever “The two shall become one flesh. So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no on separate.” (Mark 10:8-9) Divorce vs. Annulment Marriage Prep Gay Marriage
5 Key Points of Compatibility Politics Religion Education Finances Children
Other variables? class career/life goals cultural background family friends age medical conditions sense of humor emotional openness communication skills
Nuns
Deacon
#3) Religious Life Holy orders vs. consecrated life Community Life Prayer Service
Vows Poverty Chastity So that you can love all of humanity, respond to all needs