Could you help me think about where God may be calling me?

[Shana]

Hi, I’d just like some people to brainstorm with me possible ways God may want to use me. I’m studying art at university with a minor in education, but I don’t feel particularly called to be an art teacher but who knows. I have an interest in and talent for representing people in my art and I hope to point to God through art. I have a great interest in studying about my faith and feel I have a better than average understanding of Catholicism and desire to learn more, apologetic s interests me some. Recently I’ve felt called to in some way to incorporate theology of the body into my art because I’m really good at doing figurative stuff and it seems to fit with my interests and I believe that it’s needed in our culture desperately. I don’t know if God is calling me to the married life or to be a religious sister. What career paths should I look into where I’d be able to incorporate my faith and interests into my work? Any ideas? I’m just trying to see the possibilites.

 

[Ocarm]

Hi, I’d just like some people to brainstorm with me possible ways God may want to use me.

What career paths should I look into where I’d be able to incorporate my faith and interests into my work? Any ideas? I’m just trying to see the possibilites.

Hi Shana,

Although it’s not a direct answer to your question, can I ask if you’re receiving any kind of spiritual direction? Talking through your options and getting help with prayer and focussing in on God’s will for you is probably a good place to start, in advance of practical decision-making. Approaching your parish priest or chaplaincy or local religious communities should result in information about where you can find this kind of help.

I know that deciding upon career and/or vocation can seem a very urgent matter, but often it takes a long process of discernment. In the meantime there’s never a shortage of useful work or study that you can do while a decision is forming.

Best wishes and prayers for you in your search.

 

[jwywong]

It’s beautiful that your heart is open to discover whatever His Plan is for you!

Go receive the sacraments often (the Eucharist and Reconciliation), pray a lot, and be patience. For if you ask, God will answer (Mt 7:7). And He speaks in very mysterious ways, through your life experiences, people whom you encounter around you… and He’s often gentle. Strive continuous to grow in your spiritual life so you will learn how to listen to His voice.

May the Holy Spirit guides you along this exciting journey! God bless.

 

[Nom_the_Wise]

I’m hoping that I have posted this link right. If not, I started a thread last year that you may find interesting. Don’t be deceived by the title; we did discuss art making and faith quite in depth (I checked and the link works so far…).

forums.catholic-questions.org/showthread.php?t=234793

If you don’t peruse the thread (which was quite popular for a while I’m proud to say) I’d just say this: Just make your art. You are a person of faith, and that will come out somehow. I’ve had my MFA for 8 years now, and I’m still where you are. Just keep making stuff. Engage your process honestly.

Being an artist and a Christian means one thing–Boy, are you gonna suffer!

Seriously, we artists have one thing in common, and that is people just don’t understand us. Think of the “X-Men” movies. We’re mutants.

If you find you have a religious vocation, no matter where you go, you’re art will be welcomed. All of us artists long for a job title, but I don’t think one exists as such. If you find one, let me know.

Look up user jmcrae (she participated a lot in the thread). She has a website now where she’s selling her paintings. Send her a message and tell her that Nom the Wise says hi. She might not remember me, but go ahead anyway.

 

[jmcrae]

Hi, I’d just like some people to brainstorm with me possible ways God may want to use me. I’m studying art at university with a minor in education, but I don’t feel particularly called to be an art teacher but who knows. I have an interest in and talent for representing people in my art and I hope to point to God through art. I have a great interest in studying about my faith and feel I have a better than average understanding of Catholicism and desire to learn more, apologetic s interests me some. Recently I’ve felt called to in some way to incorporate theology of the body into my art because I’m really good at doing figurative stuff and it seems to fit with my interests and I believe that it’s needed in our culture desperately. I don’t know if God is calling me to the married life or to be a religious sister. What career paths should I look into where I’d be able to incorporate my faith and interests into my work? Any ideas? I’m just trying to see the possibilites.

Make sure to keep a studio going, no matter what you end up doing for money. Some people actually manage to make a living doing art. Most people don’t, though. Teaching is a good gig because you can use your creative skills in the classroom, and the exchange of ideas will inspire the work you do in the studio. Plus, you have a long summer holiday where you can go on painting trips and/or work full time on your art during the summer without having to worry about getting paid for it.

I’ve worked at a wide variety of jobs. The best jobs were the ones where I had flexible time, could work from home at least part of the time, and worked with kids.

 

[ladybuggirl84]

Photo journalist/missionary?

If you are wanting to find an order, but keep your art and supplies, you need to look carefully and talk to the vocations director of places you are interested in.

I feel similar because I love photography and love to perform and write music. I was scared for a while that the convent I go into will not let me further these passions. God later told me that He knows my passions, strenghths, fears, and weaknesses and He has a plan. I also realized that to give all to God might mean to give up my own passions and desires so I might become a part of something bigger.

Try looking into the Daughters of St Paul. Their mission is to spread the word of God through technology and communications. They are pretty cool!