Every person is called by God to live a life of holiness and purpose. This calling—your vocation—is not just something you do, but something you are. It shapes your way of being in the world, your relationships, and your response to God’s grace. In the Diocese of Lancaster, we joyfully walk with those discerning how to serve Christ and His Church, whether through the priesthood, diaconate, religious life, marriage, or single life.
The priesthood is a sacred calling to serve God’s people through the administration of the sacraments, preaching the Gospel, and shepherding the faithful. Priests in our diocese commit their lives to following Jesus and guiding others in their spiritual journeys.
If you feel called to the priesthood, we invite you to explore this vocation further. Contact our Vocations Director, who is available to support and guide you through the discernment process.
Permanent deacons are ordained to serve—at the altar, in the Word, and among the people of God. Often married men with families and careers, deacons are a visible sign of Christ the servant, working in parishes, hospitals, prisons, schools, and more. Their ministry bridges the liturgical and the everyday, bringing the Church’s care to the margins.
If you’re discerning a call to the diaconate, we’d love to talk.
Religious sisters, brothers, and priests live in community and take vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. They seek to follow Christ more closely and witness to His love through prayer and apostolic work. From contemplative monasteries to schools and hospitals, religious communities shape the spiritual life of the Church.
Marriage is a sacred covenant—a life-long vocation of mutual love, sacrificial service, and openness to new life. Married couples are the domestic church, revealing Christ’s love through their relationship and their family life. They are called to grow in holiness together, and to raise children in the faith where possible.
Some are called to live a single life in the world, dedicating their freedom to service, prayer, and love of neighbour. This vocation may be lifelong or transitional, but it is never second-best. Those called to the single life are a vital witness to holiness in everyday life—fully alive to the needs of the Church and the world.