World Day of Prayer for Vocations
By Allison Mosier04/14/2026
On April 26, 2026, the Church celebrates the 63rd World Day of Prayer for Vocations, also known as Good Shepherd Sunday—a day dedicated to praying that men and women will hear and respond generously to God’s call. Rooted in Christ’s invitation to “ask the Lord of the harvest to send laborers into his harvest” (Mt 9:38), this day highlights the essential role of prayer, faith and grace in fostering vocations to the priesthood, diaconate, consecrated life and missionary service.
Across the Diocese of Erie, this call is not only remembered—it is actively lived.
In recent months, the Diocese of Erie has taken meaningful steps to build a culture of vocations at the parish level. The Vocation Office sponsored workshops in Falls Creek and Erie, equipping parishioners to form vocation ministry teams and encourage discernment within their own communities. These efforts reflect a growing understanding that vocations are nurtured not in isolation, but within vibrant, prayerful parishes. 
At Saint Mark Seminary, 15 men gathered for a “Come and See” discernment weekend, an opportunity to step away from daily life and listen more intentionally for God’s voice. Welcomed by Bishop Lawrence T. Persico, these men were invited into prayer, fraternity and honest reflection about their future. Their willingness to explore God’s call is a visible sign of hope for the Church. 
Opportunities for discernment continue this summer with Quo Vadis Days, a four-day vocation camp for Catholic men who are striving to follow God’s call in their lives. Open to those finishing eighth grade through 2026 high school graduates, this experience invites participants into prayer, reflection and conversation with priests and seminarians. Taking place June 28 through July 1, 2026, Quo Vadis Days offers a supportive environment where men can more deeply encounter Christ, consider a call to the priesthood and build lasting friendships with others on the same journey.
These local efforts are part of a broader diocesan commitment to fostering vocations, rooted in prayer and strengthened through intentional formation. As highlighted in a recent Priests’ Day of Recollection, clergy from across the diocese gathered for renewal and practical formation focused on encouraging vocations. The day emphasized that “the future of the Church depends on hearts that are willing to listen to the voice of God,” and that building a culture of vocations begins in prayer and grows through the witness of faithful priests and parish communities.
Concrete steps are already taking shape. Parishes are being encouraged to host regular Holy Hours for vocations, establish parish-based vocation ministry teams and participate in initiatives like “Called By Name,” which invites parishioners to recognize and affirm potential vocations among them. These efforts reflect a shift from passive hope to active invitation—creating environments where God’s call can be heard and answered.
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops reminds the faithful that while all vocations are worthy of gratitude, this day places particular focus on ordained and consecrated life. It is a moment for the entire Church to unite in prayer—asking for openness, courage and generosity among those discerning their path.
In the Diocese of Erie, that prayer is already bearing fruit. From parish workshops to seminary discernment weekends, from summer experiences like Quo Vadis Days to the daily witness of faithful priests, the seeds of vocation are being planted and nurtured across all 13 counties.
As the Church celebrates this World Day of Prayer for Vocations, all are invited to take part—through prayer, encouragement and openness to God’s will. Every vocation begins with a listening heart.
Prayer for Vocations
Lord God, creator of all things and source of all gifts and talents, your Son came to this world to fulfill His vocation as the Redeemer of all humanity.
Grant the sons and daughters of the parishes of the Diocese of Erie a profound awareness of their own vocations. Through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, may they come to realize their distinct place in your divine plan.
Give them the grace to recognize and the courage to pursue vocations as devoted priests, deacons and consecrated women and men to assist the Diocese of Erie in fulfilling her mission.
With the intercession of Saint Patrick, our patron, who preached the Gospel in word and deed, we pray that they may find happiness and fulfillment in a life of service to others.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Imprimatur, July 29, 2013
The Most Reverend Lawrence T. Persico, JCL
Bishop of the Diocese of Erie
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