My View

By Ed Verbeke, USAC Executive Director

As you may be aware, the Third Continental Congress on Vocations will take place next April 18-21 in Montreal. The USA Council has been asked by the Episcopal Moderators of this Congress to identify 30 parents from the United States to attend. It is preferred that these parents:

Have a child/children 25 years of age or younger
Are willing/able to participate in diocesan gatherings
Can attend the Congress in its entirety (Thursday evening to Sunday evening)
Reflects a healthy sense/understanding of today’s Church
Demonstrates an openness to ordained ministry and consecrated life
Are involved in a parish community
Are willing to help with follow-up after the Congress.

In July, I asked the regional directors, district governors and club presidents for their assistance in identifying these 30 parents. Ideally, these parents would reflect the diversity of Church in the United States by geography and ethnic background. If you, one of your children, or someone you know from your parish fit the criteria outlined above you should consider volunteering or asking them to volunteer to be a parent delegate at this major event. You can do this by calling your club president, district governor, regional director or me (1-888-777-6681).

This Continental Vocation Congress will be a major event for the Church in both the United States and Canada.

By participating in this Vocations Congress or by attending the meetings that will be held in your diocese prior to the Congress, you can be a part of shaping the pastoral plan for vocations that will be the final product of this Vocation Congress. It’s not often that we can be involved in the process. Let’s take advantage of this opportunity. For more information you can call me or go to the Bishops’ web site, www.usccb.org.

Return to Top