VMEncourage Discerners
Supporting Those Discerning Priesthood and Consecrated LifeSometimes someone you know begins asking deeper questions.
They wonder about priesthood.
They feel drawn toward consecrated life.
They are trying to listen for God’s invitation.
You may not feel equipped to respond — but your encouragement matters.
This page gathers simple guidance and trusted resources to help you support discernment with prayer, wisdom, and trust in the Holy Spirit.
If you are unsure what your role should be in someone’s discernment, begin with our introductory resource:
Accompanying the Called
An Introduction to Accompaniment
This foundational resource helps you understand:
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How to encourage without directing
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What is helpful and what to avoid
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When to suggest next steps
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How discernment unfolds at different stages of life
“We must help souls to go forward in the path God has marked out for them, not the path we would choose.”
— St. Francis de Sales
Conversation Guides
Men and women often experience discernment in distinct ways. These guides provide practical conversation support to help you encourage each with wisdom, care, and trust in the Holy Spirit.
Encouraging a Man Discerning the Priesthood
Encouraging a Man Discerning Consecrated Life
Encouraging a Woman Discerning Consecrated Life
A Prayer for Those Who Accompany Discernment
Heavenly Father,
You call each of us to follow You in love and freedom.
We place before You those who are discerning the priesthood
and consecrated life, and those who walk alongside them.
Grant us listening hearts, patient spirits, and the grace to encourage without directing.
Help us to trust Your guidance, to speak with charity and humility,
and to remain faithful companions on the journey.
Through the intercession of the Blessed Mother,
may all who seek Your will grow in peace, courage,
and openness to Your holy invitation.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Additional Resources
When someone is ready to take a deeper step in discernment, these resources can help guide their prayer and reflection.
Discerner’s Packet
This comprehensive packet offers a structured path for discernment, including:
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Daily prayer and sacramental guidance
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Practical steps for participating fully in the life of the Church
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Recommended books and online resources
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Guidance on finding a spiritual director
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How and when to contact a vocation director or religious community
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Next steps toward seminary or religious life
It is ideal for individuals who are ready to move beyond conversation and begin intentional, prayerful discernment.
Visit the Discerners Page
For those actively discerning priesthood or consecrated life, our Discerners page gathers trusted resources, videos, books, and practical next steps in one place. Parishioners and mentors are encouraged to share this page with anyone seeking clarity about God’s invitation.
EN 
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