A special welcome from Bishop Anthony
The Bishop of Parramatta, Most Rev Anthony Fisher OP, welcomes you to the Vocations for the Catholic Diocese of Parramatta site. You can read a text version of Bishop Anthony's special welcome here.
Vocation - God's dream within you
Whatever it is that has brought you to this page, you are very welcome.
I’m sure you could be described in many ways, whether according to your interests, background or talents. Well, I’m going to take a punt on at least one description of you!
I’m going to suggest that one of following three descriptions; a), b) or c) applies to you. See if I’m right:
a) You are thinking about your direction and purpose. You want your life to make a difference. It’s important to you to have a sense that God blesses and supports what you’re thinking.
b) You are someone who is capable of praying for and/or encouraging others to take their best steps in life; for themselves, for God and for God’s people.
c) Both a) and b) above.
Well, if a), b) or c) applies to you, I really hope that you feel at home and among kindred spirits as you look through what’s here.
The concept of ‘vocation’ applies to every person’s life, for if we listen well, we discover that God calls each of us to play a part in his mission here on the earth. Whether in single life commitments, relationship and marriage, the religious life, priesthood or diaconate, each such commitment of loving forms part of Christ’s dream of life and unity.
As Vocation Director for the Diocese of Parramatta, I often refer people to others who can have a good chat with them about any vocational thought or direction. I have some great contacts among men and women in the religious life, marriage etc. As well, I spend a lot of time chatting mostly with younger men, some older too, who’ve thought about the priesthood.
With the help of others, I also offer a program of activities and reflection times throughout each year to support people in such thinking. This has helped a good number of guys to move peacefully in other directions. And it’s also helped a good number to clarify their thoughts and to take good further steps towards diocesan or religious life priesthood.
So, give me a confidential call if you’d like, if any of these comments speak to you. It will be good to say hello.
Cheers, blessings and encouragement
Fr Paul
Latest News
24/08/2010
Nine seminarians from the Catholic Diocese of Parramatta's Holy Spirit Seminary have joined seminarians from St Charles Seminary in Western Australia for an annual silent retreat.
12/07/2010
Catholic clergy from across the nation will come together for the convention of the National Council of Priests of Australia, to be held at the Sebel Hotel in Parramatta this week (12-16 July 2010).
06/07/2010
The Lord Mayor of Parramatta, Cr Paul Garrard has hosted a civic reception for Bishop Anthony Fisher OP and Bishop Kevin Manning at Granville Town Hall.
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